Sweet scent of Ghana has gone afar: Toronto is a testament
One would not want to speak for other cities around the world where our countrymen and women have found a home; however, from what I tasted of Toronto in Canada a few weeks back, the sweet aroma of Ghana was literally everywhere.
Toronto, Canada has become a testament to the sweet scent of Ghana, with its vibrant Ghanaian culture thriving within the city. During a visit to Toronto a few weeks back, the writer was struck by the pervasive aroma of Ghana that seemed to permeate every corner. The writer's experience began at the newly inaugurated "Sankofa" Square, formerly known as Yonge-Dundas Square, which was renamed in honor of Ghana's rich heritage.
The square hosted a celebration of Ghanaian culture attended by over 5,000 people, including Canadian dignitaries, tourists, Ghanaians living abroad, business leaders, and football enthusiasts. The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, played a significant role in the inauguration, further emphasizing the strong connection between Ghana and Toronto.
Upon sampling the local cuisine, the writer discovered that the traditional Ghanaian dish Tuo Zaafi, which translates to "Diehuo," was also available at a local eatery. The menu offered a variety of Ghanaian delicacies, such as fried yam with tilapia, waakye with garri and macaroni, banku and okro stew, fufu, jollof rice, and kokonte. The writer was intrigued by the presence of Hausa koko being sold in the area, a testament to the city's diverse culinary offerings.
Exploring the local markets, the writer encountered Twi, the lingua franca of Ghana, being spoken amongst the market vendors. This revealed the strong connection between the Ghanaian diaspora in Toronto and the preservation of their language and culture. Fresh produce, such as yams, cocoyam, and apem, were available at the markets, many of which originated from Ghana itself.
The Ghanaian Presbyterian Church in Toronto also provided a glimpse into the city's deep-rooted Ghanaian culture, holding services in both Twi and Ga, with hymns and dance steps reflecting the traditions back home.
As the writer immersed themselves further into the Ghanaian community in Toronto, they discovered a thriving network of Ghanaian professionals offering consultancy services in various fields. These professionals have successfully established themselves in areas such as healthcare, legal assistance, finance, insurance, shipping, cargo, and world travel, contributing to the city's cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Additionally, old student reunions and the popular Ghanaian herbal Bitters were featured in local publications, further highlighting the ongoing connection between the Ghanaian community in Toronto and their roots.
In conclusion, Toronto has become a thriving hub for Ghanaian culture, with its residents experiencing the sweet scents of Ghana in every aspect of their lives. From the food to the language, the markets to the churches, Toronto offers an environment where the Ghanaian diaspora can celebrate their heritage while embracing their new home.
The city's good roads, top-notch schools, healthcare, cleanliness, environmental consciousness, and responsible attitudes further reinforce Toronto's status as an ideal Ghanaian settlement.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
