As the world grapples with the urgent call for justice and historical redress, Ghana is set to transform into a global epicentre of Pan-African unity and activism this July and August.

The 17th edition of PANAFEST and Emancipation Day celebrations will unfold from 18 July to 2 August 2025 under the bold theme, “Let Us Speak of Reparation Justice — Pan African Artistic Activism.”

Launched on 24 June by the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, this year’s celebrations aim to shift the narrative from mere remembrance to proactive advocacy for reparations and healing through art and cultural expression.

Unlike previous editions that primarily focused on historical commemoration, the 2025 programme seeks to ignite new conversations about reparation justice and the role of the creative arts in confronting the painful legacies of slavery and colonialism.

In a statement signed by Bright Asempa Tsadidey, Head of Corporate Affairs at the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), the celebrations will commence with a symbolic Slave Route Pilgrimage and Salaga Atonement Ceremonies. These deeply spiritual moments will be followed by a lecture on emancipation in Tamale and a grand durbar at Pikworo on 18 July.

The journey of healing and reflection will continue until 1 August, culminating in the annual Emancipation Day celebrations at Cape Coast, a historical gateway where many Africans were forced into bondage centuries ago.

“This year’s theme calls on all of us — artists, activists, scholars, and citizens — to stand together and advocate for a future rooted in justice and unity,” Mr Tsadidey emphasized. “We invite all Ghanaians and the African diaspora to fully participate and help make this a truly transformative celebration.”

More than just a festival, PANAFEST and Emancipation Day 2025 promise to be a powerful call to action: a moment for the global Black community to confront the past, demand justice, and envision a future of shared prosperity and dignity.

Check out the full schedule of events below, designed to inspire, educate, and unite people from all walks of life: