Scientect

What is your favourite season of year? Why?

Ghana’s Panafest and Emancipation Season (July – August) is a powerful biennial commemoration that transcends a mere festival. It’s a profound journey of remembrance, healing, and cultural celebration, drawing the global African family back to its roots.

Centred around Emancipation Day on August 1st, which marks the abolition of slavery in British colonies, this period in Ghana provides a unique opportunity for people of African descent worldwide to connect with their heritage.

Through emotional pilgrimages to former slave castles like Cape Coast and Elmina and the poignant “last bath” ceremony at Assin Manso, visitors confront the painful legacy of the transatlantic slave trade.

Beyond reflection, Panafest explodes with vibrant expressions of African resilience. Grand durbars of chiefs, captivating performances of theatre, music, dance, and poetry, naming ceremonies, and interfaith dialogues foster unity and pride.

The season actively promotes Pan-Africanism, encouraging collective understanding, development, and a shared vision for the future, ensuring that the lessons of history empower generations to come.

The collection below includes reflections on the theme of Emancipation and reconciliation written by our community.

Reflections on the “Year Of Return”: Transitioning into a “Decade of Reconciliation”

Effective measures to reduce overcrowding in Ghanaian prisons

Psychological theories about why people help others