Ghana joins Brazil’s Salvador Carnival to promote cultural trade, development

With the quest to engage members of the diaspora community to exploit the possibilities for Ghana’s development plan and promote Ghana as a preferred destination in Africa for tourism and entertainment, the Ghana Embassy in Brazil under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has partnered Brazil to celebrate this year’s Salvador Carnival in Bahia, Brazil.

The annual Carnival is slated to begin on the 9th of February 2024 to 14th February 2024, and is themed ‘Reconnecting With Our Roots’ – and Ghana will be the first African country to participate in this carnival.

According to one of the organising team members, David Owusu Mensah, the collaboration’s purpose is to bridge the gap between Ghana and diasporas in Brazil and Brazil itself, since we share common culture practices.

“Traders, musicians, government executives and other individuals will be sent to participate in the carnival, and about five million people are going to be present,” he noted.

The organising team member made these contributions during an interview with journalists during the press launch of Ghana’s participation in the Salvador Carnival.

Mr. Mensah said that there will be a showcase of Ghanaian food, culture music, education and even sports – and also highlighted that a special programme to test DNA of diasporas to know exactly where they come from in Ghana or other West Africa regions will be conducted.

“Those who are able trace their DNA will be brought back to come learn and know their history better,” he added.

Deputy Minister for Tourism Arts and Culture, Mark Okraku Mantey, in a speech during the launch pledged government and his sector’s commitment to pursuing policies that will continue to guard the rights and freedom of every citizen, and ensure improvement in their social and economic environment.

He added that the partnership between government, diasporas and Brazil itself will facilitate mutual visits and open trade opportunities, and exchange cultural materials between the countries.

Ghana’s High Commissioner to Brazil, Abena Busia, reiterated the similarities in culture, music trade and heritage between Ghana and Brazil, and called on all Ghanaian Business entities to attend the carnival so as to increase investment in the country.

The launch was graced by industry players in the Arts and Cultural industry, and interspersed with cultural dances from different troupes.

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