Sirina Issah Shines at Ghanafest 2015 in Chicago

This year's Ghanafest was held in Chicago on 25th July. Ghanafest is an event organized annually to bring together the Ghanaian community in the United States to socialize, network and catch up on the goings on back home in Ghana. During the event, young Ghanaians learn more about the diversity in Ghana's cultures and ethnic groups through the cultural dance performances, the foods and the Ghanaian languages that are represented at the event.

One of the pioneers of contemporary Northern Ghanaian music Sirina Issah opened the ceremony with the Ghana and America National anthems. Her melodious voice was soothing to all present and set the mood for the ceremony.

Sirina Issah singing the Ghana and American National Anthems

There were various Ghanaian dignitaries present at this year's Ghanafest in Chicago. Among them were the Ghana Ambassador to the United States: General Joseph Henry Smith, the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts: Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, The Damongo Wura: Jakpa Lemon Tuntumba II who was the guest of honour.

The Damongo Wura

The Ghana Northern Union was greatly represented at Ghanafest this year. Members of the Union dazzled in their traditional gear. Many of the men wore intricately woven smocks (bingmahi) to celebrate the rich northern culture.

The Ghana Northern Union Chief Baba Issah Samori and wife Hilda Samori, and Queen Mother Hajia Habiba Fuseini.

The Africans in the diaspora were not left out either. They came in their traditional clothing to celebrate Ghanafest with their Ghanaian brothers and sisters.

The African-American Stool of Chicago

Various groups were represented. There were the Sisters of Haske Rasulullah

 Sisters of Haske Rasulullah-Chicago

Many of our Northern brothers and sisters turned up in their numbers. This is the pavilion of the Ghana Northern Union

The Ghana Northern Union Pavilion

Also present at this year's Ghanafest were some Ghanaian movie stars.

Ghanaian Movie Stars

Ghanaians living abroad were advised to uphold the beautiful culture and heritage of Ghana by teaching their children about Ghana's rich cultures and languages.

A guest advising parents to speak Ghanaian languages to their children

Popular TV Personality and Show Host Nana Adjoa Awindor of Greetings From Abroad fame was at Ghanafest this year.

There was a lot of fun and education at this year's Ghanafest held in Chicago on 25th July, 2015. Many attendees expressed the hope that in subsequent Ghanafests, Chiefs from the various ethnic groups in Ghana will be able to attend the event.

Photo Credit: Sirina Issah