African American Association of Ghana: Honoring Roots at Nkyinkyim Ceremony

African American Association of Ghana (AAAG)

The ceremonial walk was a strong symbol of culture and tradition.

On Saturday, October 11, 2025, members of the African American Association of Ghana (AAAG) embarked on a powerful day tour experience to the Nkyinkyim Museum in Ada. The group participated in the Ancestor Veneration Ceremony, one of Ghana’s most meaningful cultural events celebrating ancestry, unity, and remembrance. The four-day celebration, supported by the Adibia Royal Clan, honors African ancestors through music, traditional rites, and reflection.

Upon arrival, they were welcomed by local drummers, dancers, and community elders whose rhythmic sounds filled the air. The vibrant display of Ghanaian hospitality instantly connected visitors to the spirit of the land. A highlight of the visit was a  tour personally led by Kwame Akoto-Bamfo, the museum’s founder and creative director. Known for his internationally acclaimed art installations that honor enslaved Africans, Akoto-Bamfo guided the delegation through the museum’s expansive grounds. He shared the inspiration behind each sculpture and the significance of the Ancestor Project, a movement that bridges art and ancestral remembrance.

HONORING THE ANCESTORS

The Ancestor Veneration Ceremony (Click here to view full video)  at the Nkyinkyim Museum has become a cornerstone of heritage tourism in Ghana, blending art, spirituality, and tradition. Founded by Ghanaian artist and historian Kwame Akoto-Bamfo, the event invites Ghanaians and members of the African diaspora to reflect on their shared lineage and reconnect with ancestral wisdom.

Through drumming, libation, storytelling, and sacred prayers, participants are reminded of Ghana’s historical role as a homecoming destination for descendants of the transatlantic slave trade. The ceremony emphasizes remembrance, healing, and unity—core themes that align with Ghana’s global reputation as the gateway for diaspora reconnection and cultural immersion.

The ceremony was filled with community youth participating bringing excitement and energy to the event.

LED BY AAAG

The delegation was led by AAAG Vice President Maurice Cheetham, Co–Sergeant-at-Arms Tamica Atugba, and member Erica Asamoah, joined by fellow members who continue to champion the association’s mission of building meaningful connections between African Americans living in Ghana and the wider Ghanaian community. Their leadership reflected AAAG’s expanding role in strengthening cultural exchange and promoting unity through shared heritage.

Tamica Atugba, a Philadelphia native who gained Ghanaian citizenship in 2024, shared her enthusiasm about the experience. “I was excited to see the culture and the arts up close and to truly immerse myself in Ghanaian life,” she said. “Ghana is home.”

Dr. Crittenden, one of AAAG’s elder members, described the event as deeply moving. “It was more than I ever imagined it could be,” she said, adding that she plans to return for future ceremonies.

Together, the group’s participation highlighted how AAAG continues to serve as a bridge between the diaspora and Ghana’s cultural institutions—creating opportunities for education, connection, and belonging. This collaboration between AAAG and African Roots Travel highlights how cultural tourism in Ghana is transforming into a bridge of education, community engagement, and self-discovery. Together, both organizations continue to strengthen ties between Ghana and the global African diaspora.

The African American Association of Ghana (AAAG) visits the Nkyinkyim Museum in Ada for the Ancestral Veneration Ceremony — a sacred space honoring the memory of enslaved Africans through art, remembrance, and cultural unity. Captured by African Roots Travel.

Call to Action

The African American Association of Ghana (AAAG) invites you to become part of our growing community of professionals, families, and returnees making Ghana home. Join us as a member and take part in meaningful cultural, social, and networking experiences that celebrate unity and belonging.

Don’t miss our upcoming signature events — the 2025 Giving Thanks Dinner and the Annual White Party, two of Accra’s most anticipated gatherings that bring together the diaspora and local community for an evening of connection and celebration.

AAAG also hosts monthly meetings on the first and third Sunday of each month at the W.E.B. Du Bois Center. These meetings are open to members and guests interested in learning more about our programs, partnerships, and community initiatives.

Visit aaaghana.org to join today and stay informed about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and cultural experiences that connect us all to Ghana — our shared home.