Ghana has officially launched the 2026 Heritage Month celebration with a strong appeal to citizens to safeguard and actively promote the country’s cultural identity.

The colourful ceremony at Nationalism Park in Accra drew government officials, diplomats, traditional leaders and creatives in a united show of national pride.

The event, organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts through the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), was held under the theme “Experience Ghana, My Heritage, My Pride (Taste 69@69).” It also marked the launch of the historic Vodza Regatta, adding a traditional coastal highlight to the national programme.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Maame Efua Houadjeto, took centre stage as she led the official launch at the symbolic Nationalism Park.

The ceremony, awash with vibrant colours, traditional rhythms and patriotic spirit, signalled the beginning of a nationwide celebration dedicated to Ghana’s culture, identity and history.

Beyond the spectacle, however, it was the strong leadership message from the GTA boss that defined the tone of the event. Houadjeto described Heritage Month as both a cultural celebration and an economic activation strategy.

She announced a packed national calendar designed to increase participation and stimulate domestic tourism. Flagship activities include discounted entry to major heritage sites, the “Taste 69@69” culinary showcase, and a nationwide Heritage Caravan expected to tour multiple regions.

She also unveiled plans for a revitalised GTA digital platform and an enhanced Ghana Travel portal to strengthen the country’s digital tourism footprint.

Minister Calls for National Reawakening

Delivering the keynote address, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, rallied citizens across the country to actively engage in the month-long programme.

“This is a season of rediscovery. It is an opportunity to reconnect with who we are as a people and to present our authentic selves confidently to the world”.
Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie

The Minister urged Ghanaians to make conscious lifestyle choices that promote local industries. “Let us consciously eat Ghanaian meals, wear Ghanaian fabrics, and support Ghanaian creativity. Heritage Month is not ceremonial; it is a movement,” she declared.

She further highlighted heritage as a powerful economic driver, stressing that culture fuels tourism growth, stimulates entrepreneurship, and creates sustainable employment.

Diplomats and Stakeholders Show Strong Support

The launch attracted an array of dignitaries, reinforcing the institutional weight behind the initiative. Present were Deputy Minister Hon. Yussif Issaka Jajah, the chief executives of agencies under the ministry, traditional authorities, stakeholders from the tourism and creative sectors, and members of the diplomatic corps.

Notable among the guests were Edmond Moukala, Head of Office and Representative of UNESCO to Ghana, and Karina Gould, Culture Attaché of the Canadian Embassy.

Board Chair of the GTA, Ms. Gertrude Emefa Donkor, and other board members were also in attendance. Industry stakeholders were equally represented, including Shea Butter Ambassador Hamamat Montia, whose presence underscored the growing recognition of local enterprise and natural products in Ghana’s heritage promotion agenda.

In his goodwill message, Edmond Moukala reaffirmed UNESCO’s commitment to supporting Ghana in safeguarding both tangible and intangible heritage.

He noted that culture remains central to sustainable development and praised Ghana for placing heritage at the heart of its national agenda. His remarks echoed broader global calls to integrate culture into national development planning.

Symbolic Unveiling and Cultural Showcase

A major highlight of the event was the symbolic unveiling of Ghana Heritage Month 2026 by the Minister, joined by the GTA CEO, the UNESCO representative and other dignitaries.

The act officially set activities in motion across the country. The programme opened with a prayer by Deputy CEO for Operations, Ekow Sampson, while Deputy CEO for Marketing and Special Duties, Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey, served as master of the ceremony.

Guests were treated to captivating cultural performances, a colourful display of traditional attire and an exhibition of indigenous products that reflected Ghana’s rich diversity.

Heritage Month, celebrated each March, has evolved from a symbolic cultural observance into a strategic tourism and economic initiative. The campaign complements Ghana’s broader push to position culture and the creative arts as pillars of national development.

Officials say the programme aligns with ongoing efforts such as domestic tourism campaigns and the wider Black Star Experience agenda, which seek to project Ghana’s cultural identity globally while boosting local economic activity.

A Vision Rooted in Nkrumah’s Ideals

Paying homage to Ghana’s founding father, Kwame Nkrumah, the Minister reminded the gathering that national development must remain anchored in cultural identity.

“Osaagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah envisioned a confident and self-reliant Ghana grounded in its heritage. Our traditions are not outdated artefacts; they are living foundations upon which we must build our future.”.
Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie

With a comprehensive calendar of activities lined up nationwide, Ghana Heritage Month 2026 is poised to deepen national pride, energise the tourism sector and reinforce Ghana’s standing as a leading cultural destination in Africa and beyond.