Joe Osae, Creator of the Akwaaba Portrait with Dorcas Kwawu, the new face
Today, February 14, 2026, marks a golden milestone in Ghana’s cultural history. Exactly five years ago, the halls of the National Theatre buzzed with excitement as Dorcas Kwawu, a daughter of Keta in the Volta Region, was officially unveiled as the new face of the iconic Akwaaba frame.
What began on that fateful day in 2021 has since evolved into a global phenomenon. Today, the Akwaaba portrait—a symbol of Ghanaian hospitality and warmth—is flying high in the United States and across the world, serving as a silent but powerful ambassador for our motherland.
A Legacy of Institutional Support
Reflecting on the journey, the visionary behind the project, Joe Osae, expressed profound gratitude to the National Commission on Culture (NCC). A special tribute was paid to Madam Janet Edna Nyame, the former Executive Director of the NCC, whose unwavering assistance was pivotal in the successful unveiling of Dorcas Kwawu.
Under her leadership, the commission helped cement the portrait’s status as a national treasure.
FROM PORTRAIT TO PLATFORM: THE RISE OF AKWAABA CULTURE
The unveiling of the “New Face” acted as a catalyst for a broader cultural renaissance. Over the last five years, this momentum has birthed significant initiatives that have redefined Ghana’s tourism landscape:
– Miss Akwaaba: A premier culture and tourism reality show that has discovered and groomed young ambassadors to project the Ghanaian story.
– The Akwaaba Festival: Now in its fifth year, this celebration has grown from a fledgling event into a cornerstone of Ghana Heritage Month.
Akwaaba Festival Season 5: What to expect
As we celebrate this five-year anniversary, all roads lead back to Accra, from Thursday, March 5th to Saturday, March 7th, 2026, for the 5th edition of the Akwaaba Festival.
Organised by Ceejay Multimedia in partnership with the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), this year’s festival promises to be the most immersive yet. Highlights include:
– The Vibe Fair: A cultural market for local artisans and SMEs.
– Independence Concert: A massive musical celebration at the National Theatre forecourt.
– Wear Ghana Fashion Parade: Showcasing the best in indigenous and contemporary textiles.
A CALL TO THE NATION
As we look back at the half-decade since Dorcas Kwawu stepped into her role as the face of our hospitality, the organisers invite the general public, tourists, and the diaspora to join the 2026 celebration. It is more than just a festival; it is a testament to the power of the “Akwaaba” spirit.
Akwaaba Fest ’26 | Welcome to Ghana | #AkwaabaFestival2026
