By Aboagye Christian | Contributor, Krisem News | Social Worker, Mental Health Practitioner & Diaspora Columnist
Manchester, UK – On Saturday, 31st May 2025, the Ghanaian diaspora in Greater Manchester came alive in a colourful and inspiring celebration of Ghana’s Independence. Organised by the Ghana Union of Greater Manchester, the annual event marked not only a milestone in Ghana’s history but also a powerful gathering of heritage, pride, and progress. Themed “Promoting Our Culture, Identity, and Businesses in the Diaspora,” the celebration attracted a diverse audience, including representatives from both major political parties in Ghana—the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP)—as well as local Manchester councillors and community leaders.
In his keynote speech, Vice Chairman Francis Aweso captured the spirit of the evening with a message that resonated deeply: a call to safeguard the soul of Ghanaian culture, embrace identity with pride, and strengthen the community through economic collaboration.
“Our culture is who we are—our language, our music, our food, and our way of life,” he said. “Let’s keep Ghana alive in the diaspora.”
Francis Aweso’s words come at a pivotal time for Ghanaians both at home and abroad. In Ghana, while the economy has faced significant global headwinds, signs of resilience are emerging. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are showing renewed vigour, the cedi is stabilising, and diaspora remittances remain a vital lifeline for families and local development. Meanwhile, in the UK, the African diaspora—particularly the Ghanaian community—continues to assert its presence in sectors such as healthcare, education, the creative arts, and entrepreneurship.
The event underscored the interconnectedness between homeland and host nation. The inclusion of both the NDC and NPP representatives sent a strong signal of unity above partisanship—reminding the diaspora that regardless of political affiliation, national interest and community advancement come first.
The cultural showcase featured traditional drumming, Kente fashion, and Asante dances, reinforcing the chairman’s urging that “our children should grow up knowing their Ghanaian identity and loving it.” For many younger attendees born in the UK, this was more than a celebration—it was an education.
Economic empowerment also took centre stage. From local restaurant owners and care-home entrepreneurs to fashion designers and tech innovators, the event highlighted the growing ecosystem of Ghanaian-owned businesses in the UK. The chairman made a rallying call: “Let’s support each other. When we buy from each other and work together, we all grow stronger.”
At a time when immigration debates dominate headlines and minority communities often feel underrepresented, the Ghanaian community in Greater Manchester stands as a beacon of cultural pride, resilience, and collaborative progress. As Britain and Ghana both navigate complex political and economic landscapes, the diaspora continues to serve as a bridge between worlds—championing heritage while driving innovation.
The night closed with the unifying reminder that in culture, in identity, and in business, Ghanaians are stronger together.
Medaase. God bless Ghana. God bless the diaspora.
