The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has officially commissioned the newly refurbished Salaga slave market and slave wells, marking the commencement of the 2024 Emancipation celebration.
This event aims to transform the sites of historical pain into symbols of remembrance and healing.
“There is a need to honour the memory of those who suffered during the transatlantic slave trade,” stated Mr. Andrew Agyapa Mercer, Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, underscoring Ghana’s commitment to promoting heritage tourism and strengthening connections with the diaspora.
In his remarks, Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, Chief Executive Officer of GTA, highlighted the Salaga slave market and wells as vital components of the nation’s heritage tourism offerings.
He emphasized that while acknowledging the past, Ghanaians should focus on a future of healing and unity. Agyeman expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that contributed to the restoration and preservation of these historical sites, reaffirming GTA’s dedication to sustainable tourism and cultural heritage.
The commissioning event was met with praise from various stakeholders, including Mr. Richard Broni, Municipal Chief Executive for East Gonja, who commended the ministry for its commitment to redevelop the market and wells. The Lepowura Bore-Enasa I, representing the Kpembe Wura, pledged the support of the traditional authority in preserving the site.
The 2024 Emancipation celebration will feature a series of activities, including a durbar at Pikworo Slave Camp, a tribute to ancestors in Accra, and a wreath-laying ceremony at Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, culminating in the Emancipation Day Durbar at Assin Manso on August 1.
