On behalf of the entire community, I am so excited for our city to host OHIO GHANAFEST. In fact, Accra, Ghana, is one of Columbus’ 10 esteemed “Sister Cities” spanning the globe, advancing a rich and valued tradition of cultural, economic and intellectual exchange. This international partnership builds upon our deep ties with the local Ghananian community right here in Central Ohio, who contribute so much in every way to the diverse and vibrant tapestry of our great city. I encourage all residents to make plans to visit OHIO GHANAFEST on August 5 and learn more about their fellow neighbors. There’ll be performances and exhibits for people of all ages and backgrounds, and, most importantly, an opportunity to forge friendship and connection through understanding and interaction – the very essence of what makes Columbus so special.
Akwaaba,
Mayor Andrew J. Ginther
City of Columbus
MISSION
The mission of the OHIO GHANAFEST is to unite all Ghanaians, people of Ghanaian descent, and friends of Africa in Ohio, USA through various activities and events, to enhance the cultural awareness and artistic visibility of this diverse group of western Africans in Ohio and to contribute effectively to their overall socio-cultural well-being in the community. OHIO GHANAFEST seeks to preserve and promote the culture of people of African origin or ancestry, and to propagate and support the propagation by others of such rich and diverse culture from the targeted communities through artistic exhibitions and performances, dance, music, festivals, education, and interactive programming.
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VISION
The vision of OHIO GHANAFEST is to become the most authentic, innovative, and creative Ghana music and dance festival not only in the state of Ohio but also within the entire U.S Midwest region, and to be the region’s leading voice for and resource on Western Africa arts and culture. Ultimately, OHIO GHANAFEST intends to grow to international acclaim and attain world-class African Music and Dance festival and concert series status. As we march under the banner. “Diversity is Strength”, we aim to have a Ghanaian Cultural Center begin operations in the near future at the headquarters of OHIO GHANAFEST.
This center will serve as a cultural hub where anyone can call or drop by to visit and view quarterly showcases of African culture and also learn about generally anything happening on the African continent. The center will host everyday activities and serve as a gallery for socio-cultural programs, community events, art programs, and academic gatherings around the world on Africa, all in line with OHIO GHANAFEST’s vision of nurturing and enhancing (Our vision is to nurture and enhance) community development through arts, culture, tradition, heritage, and humanitarianism. Connecting through music and dance by people of African ancestry or origin, OHIO GHANAFEST’s desire is (we want) to see Africa, Africans, African culture and African cultural institutions revered, respected, and preserved in the consciousness of all people.
