Dr Williamson honoured as Nkosuohemaa of Abura Odonase

Dr Cheryl Polote Williamson, an African-American tourism promoter, received a prestigious honor from the chiefs and residents of Abura Odonase following her efforts in fostering connections between Ghana and the African Diaspora through tourism promotion. The chiefs bestowed upon her the honorary title of Nkosuohemaa of Abura Odonase, under the name Nana Aba Kwekuwah Somah.

The state's Sultan, Emintsinminim Otu XI, sent a delegation of 25 chiefs and queenmothers, led by Nana Tsipo Amanfo, to crown her. Williamson currently leads a 20-member U.S. business delegation visiting Ghana, aiming to enhance economic ties. At a durbar held to mark her honor, she pledged her dedication to the traditional area and her gratitude for the recognition.

She also announced a plan to bring a 70-member delegation of the African Diaspora to Ghana in March 2027 to celebrate the country's 70th anniversary. The Ghana Tourism Federation appointed Williamson as its Tourism Ambassador for Diaspora Affairs, with a mandate to promote diaspora tourism, investment, and cultural exchange between Ghana and the United States.

The federation's summit on September 14 provided the 20-member delegation with insights into Ghana's business and cultural landscape, including presentations from key organizations like the Office of the Diaspora Affairs at the Presidency, the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, the Real Estate Agency Council, and the National Commission on Culture.

Williamson's visit also saw the Ghana Tourism Federation reaffirming its commitment to connecting tourists and business travelers with relevant stakeholders across Ghana's economy.