UN Under-Secretary General and Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Dr. Natalia Kanem and Vice President of Costa Rica, Her Excellency Epsy Campbell Barr have arrived in Ghana ahead of a series of activities to honour the history, rights and contribution of People of African Descent. These include a high-level forum with dignitaries such as the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia.

Speaking to the press, Dr. Kanem said UNFPA is proud of the steps taken to facilitate the upcoming forum to address the pressing issues facing People of African Descent. According to her, People of African Descent are rising up to claim the rights that they have been denied over centuries.

She added that, “symbolically, this is a moment where every child of African descent can take great pride in their heritage; can know that Africa is on the stage leading to make a space for women farmers to finally have that sense of safety and security; for every university student to know that we are going to stand behind them and help young people to fulfil their potential.”

In her address, Vice President Epsy Campbell expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and stressed the need to bridge the gap between the People of African Descent and the continent. She expressed love for her “motherland” and her zeal to work together with UNFPA and relevant stakeholders to represent the interests of people of African heritage. Vice President Campbell opined that through this initiative, they are representing millions of people that want to be in touch with the continent.

The two dignitaries who were accompanied by Regional Director of UNFPA Latin America/Caribbean Regional Office, Harold Robinson and Central West and Central Africa Argentina Matavel Piccin arrived at the Kotoka International Airport in Accra amid a colourful display of Ghanaian culture. They were received by Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, Thomas Mbomba and representatives of His Royal Majesty Nana Odeneho Kwafo Akoto III,  as well as the Resident Representative of UNFPA Ghana Niyi Ojuolape.

Activities to be held in the next three days include visits to relevant historic touristic sites, a courtesy visit to the President and Vice President of Ghana, a high-level forum and a durbar to be held in their honour of Afro Descendants by Traditional Leaders.