The newly refurbished Salaga Slave Market and Wells have been officially inaugurated. The ceremony, conducted by Mr. Andrews Kofi Egyapa Mercer, Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, also marked the commencement of Emancipation 2024.
Scheduled from July 22 to August 1, 2024, Emancipation 2024 is organized by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture (MoTAC). This year’s theme, “Unity and Resilience: Building Stronger Communities for a Brighter Future,” aims to foster unity within the global African community.
During the inauguration in Salaga, East Gonja Municipality, Savannah Region, Mr. Mercer highlighted the significance of the market’s upgrade. He noted that the previously neglected Salaga Slave Market and Wells have been transformed into a premier cultural and tourist destination, expected to enhance both local and international tourism.
“The refurbishment acknowledges the role slavery played in shaping our world. It’s essential to confront our history honestly, using it as a lesson to build a more inclusive and equitable society,” Mr. Mercer stated. He emphasized the importance of honoring the sacrifices of ancestors who endured slavery and pledged to continue the fight against ongoing discrimination and oppression.
Mr. Mercer expressed optimism that Emancipation 2024 would boost tourism in the Savannah Region and across Ghana, highlighting unique heritage sites like the Salaga Slave Market and Wells. These efforts are expected to strengthen the economy and promote cross-cultural understanding.
Mr. Akwasi Agyeman, Chief Executive Officer of GTA, announced that the inauguration marks the beginning of refurbishing other historical sites, including the slavery museum and slaves’ cemetery, to further tourism development in the region. He urged local stakeholders to leverage the refurbished site to enhance the tourism value chain and create job opportunities for the youth.
Providing historical context, Mr. Richard Broni, East Gonja Municipal Chief Executive, recounted that Salaga was a bustling market town in the 16th century, trading goods like kola nuts, beads, ostrich feathers, salt, animal hides, textiles, and gold. By the 18th century, the market shifted to trading human beings, with captives exchanged for cowries and gold. Preserving this historic site honors the memories of those who suffered and educates future generations about the transatlantic slave trade’s human cost.
Kpembewura Banbagne Ndefeso IV, Paramount Chief of Kpembe Traditional Area, praised GTA and MoTAC for refurbishing the center. He noted that the site would serve as a place of remembrance, education, and hope for generations to come.
To ensure effective management, a five-member Governing Board was inaugurated and sworn into office.
Emancipation 2024 promises to be a pivotal event, celebrating resilience and unity while fostering a deeper understanding of shared history and promoting a brighter future
