The vision for united Africa begins with nations that are united - Western Regional Minister says at Nkrumahfest
He noted that while Ghana’s ethnic, cultural, religious and political diversity remained an important part of its identity, such differences must not undermine the country’s shared national purpose.
Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister of Ghana, has urged a renewed dedication to national unity, effective governance, and inclusive growth as Ghana pays tribute to the timeless legacy of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, whose Pan-African vision remains influential on the continent's trajectory. During Nkrumahfest 2026, held in Nkroful to celebrate the 117th birth anniversary of Ghana's first President, the Minister emphasized that the cornerstone of Nkrumah's global aspirations was rooted in forging a Ghana that is harmonized, stable, and dedicated to its citizens' prosperity.
While Ghana's ethnic, cultural, religious, and political diversity is a vital part of its identity, Nelson cautioned that such distinctions should not dilute the country's collective national objective. He asserted that the vision for a united Africa must commence with nations that are inherently united, stable, and committed to their own advancement.
Nelson highlighted Ghana's dedication to Nkrumah's heritage through the establishment of peaceful communities, robust institutions, investment in the youth, and development that permeates every region of the nation. Focusing on the Western Region, he highlighted the area's natural resources, agricultural potential, coastal sectors, industrial prospects, and cultural wealth as assets primed to enhance livelihoods.
He championed value addition, skill enhancement, innovation, entrepreneurship, and prudent management of natural resources, stressing the imperative to grant young people meaningful avenues to engage in national progress. Nelson painted Nkroful as a site of immense historical importance, from which emerged a leader whose ideas transcended Ghana's borders, impacting the broader Pan-African movement.
His words underscored the core mission of Nkrumahfest, which has evolved into a venue for safeguarding Nkrumah's memory, fostering historical education, and stimulating dialogues on African unity and development. The festival, also known as the "Journey to Nkroful," was conceived by the Nkroful Community Development Association and its allies to honor Nkrumah's legacy and boost tourism, education, and culture.
Nelson implored Ghanaians to demonstrate patriotism through service to their communities, respect for institutions, and a unified resolve towards national advancement. He praised the organizers, traditional leaders, residents of Nkroful, and all participants, expressing optimism that the commemoration would fortify national unity and spur fresh endeavors toward Ghana's and the wider African continent's development.
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