Three slavery museums to be constructed in Ketu South Municipality

According to reports on Sustainable Development Goals, Tourism is one of the world's fastest-growing industries and an important source of foreign exchange and employment for most developing countries. It is closely linked to the social-economic, and environmental well-being of these countries.

Maritime or ocean-related tourism, are for example vital sectors of the economy in small island developing States (SIDS) and coastal least developed countries (LDCs).

A lead search by Professor Wazi Apoh from the Department of Archaeology and Heritage Studies, University of Ghana - Legon, has led to the discovery of slave sites in two communities in the Ketu South municipality.

In his quest to revive history and culture, Professor Apoh sought support from the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon Elliott Edem Agbenorwu, Torgbui Sape Agbo V and Torgbui Dovo V all from Somey traditional area and got funding form Gerda Henkel Foundation, an NGO in Germany for the construction of two museums and a slave market visitor centre in Hedzranawo and Adafienu.

In a speech delivered by the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon Elliott Agbenorwu, he expressed delight in the commencement of the project which would bring a major turnaround for economic activities. He pledged on behalf of his government that by the time the buildings are ready, feeder roads leading to the sites would be constructed.

Prof Wazi Apoh, who took a turn to address a handful of community members gathered, noted that as the contractors are on-site, the projects would be completed in five(5) months.

“As we speak now, the contractor is on-site moulding blocks to begin work. We believe that once the project is completed it will showcase the culture and history of the community, showcase a lot of past slave trade in this area. It will also create an avenue for people to sell art and craft which will bring an influx of tourism in the area,” he said.

Gerda Henkel Foundation has awarded a € 90,000 for all three projects.

Torgbui Sape Agbo V, the Divisional Chief of Somey traditional area, has called on the people to willingly donate items in their possession to be kept in the Museum.

The chiefs and the people are grateful to have Hedzranawo Adzidor Slave Market Center, Hedzranawo Slave Museum and Adafienu Palace Slave Museum.

In the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development SDG target 8.9, aims to “by 2030, devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products”, you are welcomed to tour these site in " Year of Return " by African Countries.