Travel has a unique way of shifting perspectives. As a Ghanaian, I thought I knew my country well. Its cities, culture, cuisine, and historic sites. But it wasn’t until I traveled alongside a group of African American visitors that I saw Ghana through an entirely new lens filled with emotion, discovery, and a deep connection to ancestry and culture.

Our journey began in Accra, the vibrant capital city buzzing with life. From the colorful arts and crafts markets to the stirring Independence Arch and Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, the group was visibly moved by the resilience and pride woven into Ghana’s story. As we ventured onward to Cape Coast, the mood shifted to reverence and reflection. Visiting the Cape Coast and Elmina slave castles, standing in the very dungeons where our ancestors were held stirred emotions none of us could put into words. Watching my fellow travelers grapple with the painful history of the transatlantic slave trade was both heartbreaking and beautiful. For them, it was not just a historical tour, it was a homecoming.

In Aburi, we were greeted by Ghana’s lush natural beauty. A walk through the serene Botanical Gardens and a tour of a cocoa farm offered a refreshing glimpse into the country’s agricultural heart and peaceful landscape. For many in the group, tasting Ghana’s cocoa straight from the pod was a first and a moment of joy.

Of course, no Ghanaian experience is complete without the food. From jollof rice and waakye to banku with tilapia, I watched as they delighted in every bite, savoring each flavor with curiosity and excitement. Their open-mindedness and joy in embracing our local dishes reminded me how rich and inviting our culture is.

What made this journey unforgettable wasn't just the places we visited, but the perspectives shared. The African American travelers were on a quest to reconnect with their roots, to honor their ancestors, and to celebrate their heritage. Traveling with them helped me understand the emotional depth of returning to a land their ancestors were taken from. As a Ghanaian, it was a privilege to witness this, and it helped me appreciate our history and culture in a deeper, more profound way.

My few days with them became more than a tour. It was a shared journey of learning, healing, and connection. I am not only proud of my country, but grateful for the reminder that the story of Ghana is one of strength and it continues to inspire people across the globe.

This journey reaffirmed the power of travel to bridge cultures, heal history, and bring people home even if it’s for the first time. 

 
Deborah Dankyi