The Fourth Edition of the ‘Akwaaba (Welcome) Show’ took place in a spectacular style at the forecourt of the National Theater, showcasing beautiful local products and vibrant performances.
The three-day event, from March 6 to 8, portrayed an atmosphere of excitement as artisans and vendors showcased an array of locally manufactured products, depicting Ghanaian craftsmanship and culture.
The event, to promote Ghana’s cultural identity, diversity and domestic tourism,
was organised by CeeJay Multimedia, in collaboration with the Tour Motherland Ventures, Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) and National Commission on Culture within the ‘Ghana Month’.
It served as a testament to the talent and creativity of local producers, with colourful beads, intricate handwoven fabrics, stylish dresses, and beautiful crafts filling the spaces.
Visitors who strolled through the tents, admiring the craftsmanship of those handmade artefacts, were eager to support the local economy by purchasing the unique pieces, which told the story of the Ghanaian tradition.
The evenings of the second and third days saw musical performances and cultural dances, where audiences at the National Theater were electrified by the ‘Akwabaa Night,’ Black Star Awards and the launch of Miss Akwabaa.
Mr Joe Osae, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), CeeJay Multimedia, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, said this year’s edition had seen an increase in patronage, performances and creativity, describing it as a “progression from the previous years.”
“The vendors and manufacturers come from Western, Ashanti, Eastern and Greater Accra regions. Of all the four years, this edition has been the best, the patronage has been great, creativity and performance have been excellent,” he said.
Nana Aba Quaye, the CEO of Tour Motherland Ventures, who operates as a link between Ghana and the diaspora, said the ‘Akwabaa Show’ was an appetite stimulant for the diaspora people, adding that she would take the show to the United States.
“The creativity in the crafts that I have seen is top-notch. It is interesting to see how small businesses are thriving to become mega ones. The diaspora is much interested in African creativity, and we need to build on that and let the world know that Africans are powerful and capable people,” she added.
Nana Otuo Owoahene Acheampong, Acting Executive Director, National Commission on Culture, said the ‘Akwaaba Show’ and the ‘Ghana Month’ were to promote Ghana’s cultural heritage, domestic tourism and encourage Ghanaians to patronise local products.
He commended CeeJay Multimedia and partners for a memorable show that entertained the audience, adding that the ‘Ghana Month’ should be promoted by families and homes preparing local dishes, speaking local dialects and visiting tourists sites.
Some officials from the tourism value chain, who graced the event, included Madam Alisa Osei-Asamoah, TOUGHA President, Madam Akumaa Mama Zimbi, broadcast journalist and promoter of cultural identity, and Mr Kofi Atta Kakra Kusi, a marketing manager for the Ghana Tourism Authority.