In a quest to celebrate a Ghanaian pride, I joined a team of naval officers and officials from the Tourism Ministry on a journey across the equator as part of the Ghana Month festivities.
The mission: To reach the supposed “center of the earth” located in Ghana’s waters. However, what awaited us at our destination was not the awe-inspiring spectacle we had anticipated.
The Journey
Departing from the bustling Tema Port, the news crew and the rest of the team embarked on a voyage with a sense of excitement and anticipation on the 19th March 2024. Among the team were naval officers, representatives from the Tourism Ministry, and other agencies, all eager to experience this historic moment.
The journey unfolded over a day and a half, with the team traversing some 340 nautical miles from Tema Port. As we neared our destination, expectations ran high. However, upon arrival, there was little to distinguish our location as the “center of the earth” aside from a GPS indication.
Disappointment Sets In
Almost everyone onboard, expressed disappointment. “We were all disappointed as all we could see was water – the sea water and the skies.”
The scene offered nothing out of the ordinary, resembling any other stretch of ocean and sky. Even representatives from the tourism agencies present to promote Ghana’s claim as the “center of the world,” were taken aback by the lackluster sight.
However, they vowed to address the situation, promising action to ensure that Ghana’s unique position did not go unnoticed.
A Touch of Tradition
Despite the disappointment, the journey was not without its moments of camaraderie and tradition. Naval officers onboard regaled the team with the tale of King Neptune, a maritime tradition often observed before crossing the equator. As part of the ritual, all members on board were initiated and made to submit to the king before continuing their voyage.
Conclusion
While the journey across the equator may not have yielded the spectacle that was anticipated, it served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of exploration. Despite the disappointment, the spirit of adventure and discovery lives on as Ghana continues to celebrate its rich heritage and geographical significance on the global stage.
As the team returns to shore, their quest may not have ended as they hoped, but the journey itself stands as a testament to Ghana’s enduring spirit of exploration and curiosity.
By Joseph Amstrong Gold-Alorgbey