UE/R: SOCO PROJECT FACILITATORS URGED TO WORK HARD FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE PROJECT – DCE NABDAM
BY: GLADYS APUWENI
The 2025 Panafest and Emancipation Day celebrations will take place at the historic Pikworo Slave Camp in the Upper East Region on July 18th and 19th, under the theme, “Let Us Speak of Reparative Justice – Pan African Artistic Activism.” This marks the third edition of the festival in the region, reinforcing its position as a hub for heritage tourism, cultural reflection, and Pan-African unity.
The Upper East Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Mr. Wisdom Ahadzi, who is passionate about history, culture, and tradition, shared the details during an interview with Gladys Apuweni on URA Radio 89.7 MHz. He assured the public that this year’s edition promises to be unforgettable, with rich cultural displays and nonstop fun that will leave lasting memories for participants and the Upper East Region at large. Activities for the festival will commence on Friday, July 18th, with a health walk and free health screening, followed by cultural display, and a drama performance by the Upper East Filmmakers Association. A vigil night, with all participants dressed in white, will be held at 6:00 PM at the Pikworo Slave Camp to honour the memory of ancestors and reflect on the need for reparative justice across the continent.
On Saturday, July 19th, the grand durbar will take place at 10:00 AM with participants clad in traditional attire. The day will feature exhibitions, cultural displays from various dance groups, and artistic presentations to promote Pan-African identity and the call for reparations.
Special guests expected to grace the occasion include the Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Donatus Atanga Akamugri, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Maame Efua Houadjeto, along with chiefs, traditional leaders, and cultural ambassadors
Panafest and Emancipation Day continue to serve as platforms for healing, learning, and reconnecting with African heritage, while inspiring the youth to appreciate the resilience of their ancestors and the ongoing struggle for justice and development on the continent.
The Ghana Tourism Authority, in collaboration RCC, paga youth movement and with other stakeholders in the region, is calling on all Ghanaians, diasporans, and Pan-African allies to participate fully, support the celebration, and promote the Upper East Region as a destination for cultural tourism, historical learning, and African pride.
