Preserving a legacy: Expert brought in to assess renovation of Nkrumah mausoleum

Ghana Tourism Authority Calls for Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum Upgrade

Henry Yeledour, the Western Regional Manager of the Ghana Tourism Authority, is advocating for an upgrade to the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum in Nkroful. This site is the birthplace of Ghana's first President. Yeledour believes it needs renovation to meet world-class standards. He aims to increase tourist visits to this important historical site.

Yeledour stated that discussions about the facelift are in early stages. A meeting has already taken place with board members to gather suggestions. The goal is to make the mausoleum a pilgrimage site for tourists visiting Accra.

The former Western Regional Minister, Kobina Okyere Darko Mensah, supported the renovation plan during his time in office. He expressed his commitment to assist with this project until his party lost power.

Yeledour mentioned that the planning committee for Nkrumah Fest is also interested in funding renovations. The plan includes reopening a library that has been closed for years and improving reception and restroom facilities. The GTA is looking for an expert to provide a cost estimate for these renovations.

In 2023, revenue from the mausoleum increased significantly, rising from Gh 2,927 to Gh 4,986. This was due to an increase in visitors, including both Ghanaians and non-Ghanaians. Yeledour believes that further renovations could boost revenue even more.

The GTA plans to use Nkrumah Fest in September as a fundraising opportunity for renovations. During his campaign visits in 2024, President Akufo-Addo promised to include Nkrumah Fest among National Tourism Festivals.

Members of the mausoleum's governing board have written to MP Armah Kofi Buah about this promise. Buah has forwarded their letter to Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture. She assured them she would follow up on the president's commitment.

Recently renovated monuments have gained attention on social media after former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo reopened the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park on July 4, 2023.