The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has held a special wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate the 2024 Emancipation ceremony in grand style.
The wreath laying event which took place on Thursday, July 24, 2024, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the ancestors amidst the resilience displayed in the face of adversity.
Each of the wreaths laid on the day symbolized the commitment to honoring their memory and preserving the history for future generations.
Themed, “Unity and Resilience: Building Stronger Communities for a Brighter Future”, resonate deeply on the reflection on shared history.
Delivering a statement, Honourable Egyapa Mercer disclosed that Ghana in recent times has embraced her role as a bridge and reconnecting continents while welcoming African diaspora.
He noted further that the Year of Return initiative which marked a pivotal moment-a homecoming for those seeking to reconnect with the roots.
“We recognize the growing importance of engaging with our global family, fostering cultural exchange, and strengthening bonds that transcend borders”, he intimated.
He reiterated further that the launch of the Beyond the Return as a ten year project to consolidate gains of the Return and aimed at fostering closer collaboration between the global African Family.
The restoration and commissioning of the Salaga Slave Market and Wells is a testament of the unwavering dedication of the ministry.
“The hallowed ground once stained by the horrors of slavery has now been rehabilitated by the Ghana Tourism Authority to serve as a place of remembrance-a tribute to the resilience of those who endured unimaginable suffering”, he added.
The Minister said work is ongoing at the Pikworo Slavery Camp in a bid to honor the fortitude of the ancestors while drawing inspiration from their endurance.
He disclosed that the ongoing work is part of the Slave Route Project under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture.
According to him, having managed to celebrate Emancipation in Salaga, Pikworo, Accra, Assin Praso, Cape Coast, Elmina, and climaxing at Assin Manso, is a remarkable achievement.
“Professor Efua Sutherland Addy played a pivotal role in birthing Panafest. As we celebrate her, we celebrate all those who, like her, became torchbearers of celebrating our struggles as a people,” he noted. He concluded with a reaffirmation of the commitment to building a brighter future.
“Unity is our cornerstone, and resilience our compass. Together, we forge stronger communities—ones that thrive on shared purpose, empathy, and collective progress. Our path forward is illustrated by hope, guided by the legacy of those who paved the way,” he intimated.
Emancipation Day is a significant observance that commemorates the abolition of slavery and the liberation of African people from the transatlantic slave trade. It is a day to honor our ancestors’ struggles and celebrate their resilience, ensuring that their stories and sacrifices are never forgotten. This day is also a reminder of our continuous journey towards freedom, equality, and justice.
