Category: Tourism and Culture

Excitement has filled the air as the countdown begins for the highly anticipated first ever New England Ghana Festival (NEGFest) 2024, set to take place from Friday, September 6 to Sunday, September 8, 2024 in the USA.

The New England Ghana Festival (NEGFest 2024) Under The Auspices Of The Ghana Heritage Foundation In Partnership With The Honorary Ghana Consulate In Massachusetts, The US-Ghana Embassy, Worcester State University, Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, The Ghana Ministry of Tourism, Arts And Culture, the Ghana Tourism Authority, Nananom, Local Churches, And The entire Ghana Community In New England
and several other esteemed entities, promise an unforgettable experience celebrating Ghanaian heritage and culture at this inaugural edition.

The event is on the theme: “Sankofa; Embracing Our Heritage, Connecting Our Past”

This was disclosed in an exclusive interview with the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Ghana to Worcester–Massachusetts, Hon. Ken Asafo-Adjei, who doubles as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ghana Heritage Foundation.

According to him, the main organizers of the NEGFest 2024 are mainly Ghanaian volunteers supporting the vision to create new opportunities for Ghanaians and Africans, as well as carving symbolic cultural identities.

According to him, under the resonating theme of “Sankofa; Embracing Our Heritage, Connecting Our Past,” the inaugural NEGFest 2024 aims to encapsulate the spirit of returning to one’s roots, celebrating the essence of Ghanaian identity, and fostering connections across diaspora black generations.

“The Ghana Heritage Foundation (GHF), is a non-profit organisation committed to empowering and uplifting the Ghanaian community in New England.

Our vision is to foster a strong sense of cultural identity, economic prosperity, education, and social cohesion among Ghanaians in the region.

GHF is dedicated to community engagement, development, and policy advocacy to enhance the lives of Ghanaians in New England,” he emphasized.

The Honorary Consul of the Republic of Ghana to Worcester Massachusetts further extended an invitation to all Ghanaians and the Diaspora Community to attend and support NEGFest 2024 in their numbers.

“NEGFest 2024 invites everyone to join in the celebration of Ghanaian heritage, unity, and pride. Kindly stay tuned for further updates and get ready for a historic weekend of cultural immersion and connection.”

Below Is The Full Calendar & Highlights of NEGFest 2024:

Day One: Friday, September 6, 2024

Morning Session:

Business Entrepreneurship Network

There is a common saying that the life of an entrepreneur can be isolating, especially when you don’t have a well-established support system in place.

One way to overcome this challenge is by reaching out to and building connections with other successful entrepreneurs, both locally and globally.

Through business engagements with Top Ghanaian and African Diaspora Entrepreneurs, we can bridge the gap between our respective networks and foster meaningful relationships that lead to growth and success.

Time: 9: 00 am – 12:00 pm

Venue: Worcester State University

Evening Session: Friday, September 6, 2024

Experience A Blend Of Education And Entertainment As Ghanaian Youth Aged 18 To 30 Showcase Traditional, Festival, And Fashion Elements, Alongside Food And Series Of Cultural Displays.

Come Let’s Embrace Our Rich Diverse Culture
Demonstrating Our Enviable Ghanaian Heritage With Pride

Also, join us for the NEGFest 24’s Beauty Pageant, which we would be celebrating and Exhibiting True Ghanaian Culture including Comedy, Poetry and so much more.

Time: 6:00 pm – 12:00 am

Venue: Worcester State University

Day Two: Saturday, September 7, 2024

Morning Session: Durbar

Experience the grandeur of Ghanaian culture at the Durbar, featuring a majestic parade led by local chieftains and queen mothers adorned in lavish attire.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, captivating performances, and tantalizing flavors of regional cuisine as the essence of Ghana comes to life. Dress in your best African attire and be part of this extraordinary celebration.

Time: 9:00 am – 5: 00 pm

Venue: Worcester State University

Dress Code: Anything African

Evening Session: Kente Dance

As the sun sets, the festivities continue with the electrifying Kente Dance, showcasing the beauty and tradition of one of Ghana’s most iconic fabrics.

Dance to the rhythmic beats of highlife music performed live by talented Ghanaian artists, and revel in the colorful energy of this cultural extravaganza.

*Time: 6:00 pm – 1:00 am

Day Three: Sunday, September 8, 2024

Get Ready For An Exciting Soccer Games Among Other Engaging Activities.

A Ghanaian Premier League Club Is Billed To Play An Exhibition Match Against A Football Club In Connecticut

Time: 3pm

Venue: Trinity Health Stadium

Stay tuned for more details!

NEGFest 2024…..

Sankofa; Embracing Our Heritage, Connecting Our Past!!!!!

In a historic event for the diaspora community, the New Juaben Omanhene, Daasebre Nana Kwaku Boateng III, would be the main speaker and the Special Guest of Honour for the inaugural 2024 NEGFest in Worcester Massachusetts the USA.*

Daasebre Nana Kwaku Boateng III had his education at St. Peter’s Secondary School before moving to Germany to continue his studies where he lived and worked for decades.

He has extensive knowledge and expertise about the African Diaspora and cultures having lived in Europe for so long.

This event marks a significant milestone in celebrating and reconnecting with Africans and their heritage.

The New England Ghana Festival (NEGFest 2024) Under The Auspices Of The Ghana Heritage Foundation (GHF) in Partnership With The US-Ghana Embassy, Worcester State University, Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, The Ghana Ministry of Tourism, Arts And Culture, the Ghana Tourism Authority, Akwaaba Clinic, Nananom, Local Churches, And The entire Ghana Community In New England and several other esteemed entities, promises to be a vibrant showcase of Ghanaian heritage.

*A Royal Presence*

Daasebre Nana Kwaku Boateng III, the esteemed Chief will also be accompanied by his whole royal entourage including the Queenmother of New Juaben, Ohemaa Nana Serwaa III.

Their presence at NEGFest underscores the deep cultural ties and importance of heritage among the diaspora community in the United States.

With the participation of esteemed figures like Daasebre Nana Kwaku Boateng III and Ohemaa Nana Serwaa III, the festival is set to inspire and unite the diaspora in a profound exploration of their cultural identity.

*Theme And Objectives*

The 2024 NEGFest, centered on the theme “Sankofa: Embracing Our Heritage, Connecting Our Past,” aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of African traditions and history.

Daasebre Nana Kwaku Boateng’s III speech will highlight the significance of remembering and honouring one’s roots while forging a progressive path for success.

*A Nationwide Tour*

During his one-month visit, Daasebre Nana Kwaku Boateng III will engage with New Juaben natives across the United States, starting from Massachusetts where he will be based for the event.

His itinerary includes visits to six other states: New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Illinois (Chicago), Virginia, and Maryland.

These meetings will provide an invaluable opportunity for the diaspora to connect with their cultural heritage and discuss matters pertinent to their community.

*Building Community Connections*

This tour is not only a cultural exchange but also a chance for the New Juaben Omanhene to meet and address the concerns and aspirations of his people living abroad.

It reflects a commitment to maintaining strong ties between the homeland and its people worldwide.

The 2024 NEGFest promises to be a landmark event, celebrating African heritage and strengthening community bonds. The Ghana Heritage Foundation is happy to have him as the Main speaker and Special guest of Honour for Negfest 2024.

Source: kasapafmonline.com