On Saturday, August 22, musician and entrepreneur Mzbel officially opened Afro Essence Village, a cultural and heritage destination in Gbawe, Accra. The venue, designed to showcase Ghanaian art, tradition and creativity, welcomed a lively mix of entertainment stars, traditional leaders, creatives and community members.
Cultural dancers performed traditional routines while children enjoyed a dedicated corner of activities. Colourful art displays turned the space into a hybrid gallery and playground for culture lovers.
Notable guests included actress Akuapem Poloo, veteran singer Yvonne Ohene Gyan, Gbawe Mantse Nii Boi Kojo II who cut the sod, and Naomi Borley Alabi Esq., Acting Deputy CEO for Finance and Administration at the Ghana Tourism Development Company.
Speaking at the launch, Mzbel said her aim is to put Gbawe on the map through arts, culture and tradition, and to provide a platform for Ghana’s creative community. She also outlined plans to expand the facility into what she hopes will become the Gbawe Arts Centre, urging local traditional leadership to support the initiative.
Mzbel emphasized that Afro Essence Village is a space for culture, creativity and heritage preservation, not a spiritual centre, countering misconceptions that African cultural works are tied to spirituality or negativity.
As the project develops, the venue is expected to become a tourist attraction, offering both Ghanaians and visitors a relaxed setting to experience African culture up close.
