The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts of Ghana, Mrs. Catherine Abelema Afeku, visited the Cuban embassy, being received by Ambassador Pedro Luis Despaigne González, who welcomed her and emphasized the common past between the peoples of both countries.
The Minister, who is also member of the Parliament, informed the Ambassador that she is preparing to attend the XVII International Conference on African and African-American Culture, to be held in Santiago de Cuba from April 11th to 16th, 2018, where will be analyzed the ties between America and Africa. Mrs. Abelema Afeku pointed out that she has historical documentation evidencing the arrival in the territory of Cuba, under conditions of slavery, of citizens of the Ashanti group, the largest of those who live in Ghana today.
The Cuban Ambassador explained to the visitor the geographical peculiarities of the city of Santiago de Cuba, and highlighted the role played by this city in the different stages of the struggles for the independence of Cuba. In the exchange, he reaffirmed how the African roots contributed to the spirit of rebellion and sense of freedom that characterizes the Cuban Nation.
Regarding the historical-cultural similarities, the Cuban diplomat explained that the strengths built in both countries in the period of slavery allow the understanding of the same historical process, from two different angles. The Minister, for her part, highlighted the strength of the Cuban ancestors, who first survived a long and hazardous maritime trajectory and then the horrors of slavery.
The Cuban Ambassador highlighted how in the Cuban capital, the Office of the Historian develops a Cultural Project, where the restoration of historical places and tourism are interrelated. The Ghanaian Minister reiterated her government's interest in placing the six historical fortresses of her country in terms of education and tourism. That is why he said that Ghana could benefit from the Cuban experience in the preservation of historical-cultural heritage.
The visitor, who was accompanied by her Personal Assistant, Mr. Michael Asamoah Boafo, indicated her satisfaction for fulfilling the dream of traveling to Cuba, a country that she admires for its history and its ties with Ghana. On the Cuban side, the First Secretary, Julio César Sánchez, and the Specialist, Raisa Burón Anglada, also participated.