The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, together with the Ghana Tourism Authority, has successfully wrapped up a trade and investment mission across the United States, aimed at deepening economic cooperation and promoting the Black Star Experience. The delegation visited Memphis, Tennessee; Detroit, Michigan; and Columbus, Ohio, strengthening ties through strategic engagements with public and private stakeholders.
Led by Deputy Minister Hon. Yussif Jajah, the team included Mrs. Maame Efua Houadjeto, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Mr. Ben Anane-Nsiah, Deputy CEO, and Ms. Annabelle McKenzie, Director of the International Affairs Secretariat.
Central to the mission was the objective of attracting trade and investment across sectors such as tourism, real estate, manufacturing, education, hospitality, and the creative arts. Meetings were held with government representatives, business chambers, cultural institutions, and universities to position Ghana as a thriving gateway for global partnerships.
In Memphis, the team was welcomed by the Mayor’s Office in collaboration with GUBA (Grow, Unite, Build Africa), continuing the momentum from Ghana’s recognition at the 2022 Memphis in May International Festival. Talks focused on advancing trade, tourism, and education collaborations, with the University of Memphis—home to over 200 Ghanaian students—highlighted as a key academic ally.
In Detroit, the delegation connected with diaspora and non-diaspora leaders, exploring opportunities in real estate, culture, and entertainment. Plans are already underway for a Ghana Cultural Fair in Detroit, set to celebrate Ghanaian heritage while opening doors to economic exchange.
Columbus, Ohio, Ghana’s only U.S. sister city, hosted the delegation for further dialogue centered on business and investment collaboration. The Mayor of Columbus and key stakeholders expressed strong support for initiatives aimed at expanding cross-border trade and institutional partnerships.
A strong emphasis was placed on engaging the global African diaspora. According to Mrs. Houadjeto, “Ghana is committed to building meaningful pathways for the diaspora—not just to visit, but to invest, to partner, and to help shape Ghana’s future. The Black Star Experience offers a welcoming platform for all—whether diaspora or non-diaspora—to connect with Ghana’s heritage, culture, and economic opportunities.”
The Black Star Experience continues to serve as a rallying point for cultural exchange, diaspora engagement, and global cooperation.
Looking ahead, Ghana’s tourism leadership plans to extend this outreach to additional U.S. cities, including New Orleans, New York, and Washington, D.C., reinforcing its agenda of global collaboration through tourism, culture, and investment.