On Sunday, March 3, 2024 about 170 enthusiastic patrons, known as ‘Caravanites’, embarked on the highly-anticipated Citi FM/Citi TV 2024 Heritage Caravan. It was a transformative journey spanning 8 days to explore 14 regions of Ghana.
This immersive journey provided a deep dive into the heart of Ghana, showcasing its rich cultural diversity to the eager Caravanites.
The Heritage Caravan serves as a vibrant exploration of Ghana’s cultural tapestry, blending history, gastronomy, and entertainment in every region it embraces.
The Journey
Throughout the 8-day expedition, participants whose ages range between early 20s and mid 70s experienced a journey of a lifetime, being exposed to the diverse cultures of Ghana.
The 8- day journey took ‘Caravanites’ through the Volta, Eastern, Ashanti, Bono, Ahafo, Bono East, Upper East, North East, Northern, Savannah, Western North, Western and Central Regions, before returning to the Greater Accra Region.
Anticipation and Excitement
For many participants, especially those travelling outside the Greater Accra Region for the first time, the journey was filled with anticipation and excitement.
It provided a learning curve for many as they delved into the stories behind various tourist sites, whilst others saw it as an opportunity to have fun away from their busy schedules.
Volta Region
In the Volta Region, participants indulged in a Volta Food Bazaar and a Kente Durbar, savoring local dishes and enjoying waist breaking borborbor dances by cultural troupes.
Eastern Region
In the Eastern Region, patrons literally “discovered the unknown” meals of the region at a lunch hosted by the Regional Minister, Seth Acheampong. The breathtaking mountainous and valley scenes of the region could easily pass as dessert for patrons as they strained from right to left taking in the views.
Ashanti Region
The journey then transitioned to the Ashanti region, where participants visited the prestigious Manhyia Palace Museum and witnessed the return of looted artifacts.
Other Regions
The adventure continued with visits to natural wonders such as the Kintampo Waterfalls in the Bono East Region and the Paga Crocodile Pond in the Upper East Region, where those wild reptiles allowed patrons to pose for pictures with them as they lied motionless at the bank of the pond enjoying the hot sun rays that land on their thick backs.
Northern Region
In the Northern Regional capital, Tamale, a cultural night at the Dakpema Palace did not only expose Caravanites to the beautiful dances and songs of Dagbon, but also, to the spectacular performance of horse riders who proved that even horses can dance when the rhythm is good.
Savannah Region
The Mole National Park in the Savannah Region brought many patrons face to face for the first time with mountain sized elephants which they hitherto, had only seen on television screens and pictures. The sight of the largest animal on earth was perhaps, one of the major highlights of the trip.
Western Region
Having done 7 out of the 8 day journey, the elegant Maaha Beach Resort in the Western Region was just the right relaxation spot for patrons to cool off. A formal dinner and a bonfire night climaxed by barefoot walks on the sandy beaches of Nzema land was heavenly.
Rich Culture
Throughout the expedition, participants celebrated Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, interacted with local communities and formed lasting memories.
Returning to Accra and the pressures of work and life was the last thing Caravanites wished for, but alas, the journey had to end as they grudgingly and reluctantly dragged their luggage out of the buses parked at the premises of Citi TV before disappearing into the night skies towards home.
The success of the Heritage Caravan was made possible through the support of sponsors such as the National Lottery Authority, Hollard Insurance, GB Foods among others.
By Leticia Osei, with files from Umaru Sanda Amadu
