The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), under the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, has officially announced the programme of activities for Emancipation 2026, a trans-Atlantic commemoration that honors the resilience, sacrifices and enduring legacy of Africans who endured the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade.
According to a statement signed by Corporate Affairs Director, Bright Asempa Tsadidey, this year’s celebration will be held under the theme “Reconnecting Roots, Celebrating Freedom, Experiencing Ghana.”
The Authority said the commemoration forms part of Ghana’s commitment to preserving its rich historical heritage, promoting cultural tourism, and strengthening the bonds between Africa and its global diaspora.
This year’s programme will run from Saturday, July 18 to Friday, July 31, 2026, with activities taking place across Accra, the Central Region and the Upper East Region.
The events are expected to bring together traditional authorities, members of the diplomatic community, the African diaspora, development partners, cultural practitioners, students and the general public.
The activities will begin with a Fitness Walk on Saturday, July 18 at 7:00AM in Accra, Cape Coast, Pikworo and Assin Manso. On Tuesday, July 21 at 11:00AM, a Durbar will be held at the Pikworo Slave Camp in the Upper East Region.
On Thursday, July 23, the Authority will hold a Tribute to Ancestors through a Wreath Laying Ceremony at three locations in Accra. The ceremony starts at 9:00AM at the W.E.B. Du Bois Centre, continues at 11:30AM at the George Padmore Library, and concludes at 2:00PM at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
A Durbar of Chiefs will follow on Wednesday, July 29 at 10:00AM in Assin Praso in the Central Region. The commemoration will climax on Friday, July 31 with a Remembrance Wreath Laying Ceremony at 11:00AM in Salaga, Savannah Region, and later a Reverential Night at 8:00PM at the Cape Coast Castle. The Reverential Night will feature a Candlelight Procession from Mfantsipim Junction, wreath laying, testimonies, spoken word, drama, a roll call of ancestors, and the reading of a proclamation. Participants have been asked to wear white.
The GTA has warmly invited all Ghanaians, members of the African diaspora, tourists, cultural organizations, traditional authorities, faith-based organizations, development partners, and the media to participate in the various activities and join the nation in reflecting on a shared history while celebrating the enduring spirit of freedom, resilience and Pan-African solidarity.
“Emancipation remains a powerful reminder of the triumph of the human spirit over oppression and reinforces Ghana’s position as the gateway for the global African family to reconnect with its roots, heritage and identity,” the statement noted.
The Authority added that it looks forward to welcoming participants from across Ghana and around the world to another memorable and impactful Emancipation celebration.
