PANAFEST and Emancipation Day Celebrations; A testament to the Resilience of the African Spirit – Ras Caleb Appiah Levi

The Global Ambassador for this year’s PANAFEST and Emancipation Day Celebrations, Ras Caleb Appiah Levi, has emphasised the enduring significance of these events, describing them as powerful symbols of the African spirit’s strength and resilience.

Ras Caleb, who is also the Founding President of PANAFRICA-GHANA, made these remarks during the official launch of the 2025 PANAFEST and Emancipation Day Celebrations, held by Ghana’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and the Ghana Tourism Authority.

In his keynote speech, Ras Caleb called on Africans at home and in the diaspora to give greater attention to these commemorations, which he said are more than mere cultural festivities.

“PANAFEST and Emancipation Day Celebrations are more than just festivals; they are a testament to the resilience and strength of the African spirit. They are a celebration of our history, our culture, and our contributions to the world,” he stated. “They are also a reminder of the struggles we have faced and the journey we have undertaken towards freedom, justice, and equality.”

He further stressed that both celebrations serve as a unifying platform for Africans and people of African descent to reconnect with their roots, reflect on shared experiences, and reaffirm their commitment to the Pan-African ideals of unity, self-determination, and cultural pride.

PANAFEST (Pan African Historical Theatre Festival) and Emancipation Day have, over the years, become key events on Ghana’s cultural calendar. They attract global participation and celebrate the heritage and contributions of African people while acknowledging the painful legacy of slavery and colonialism.

Ras Caleb’s passionate call aligns with ongoing efforts by the Ghanaian government and Pan-African organisations to promote cultural reawakening, historical education, and the strengthening of ties between Africa and its diaspora communities.

As preparations for this year’s events gather momentum, Ras Caleb’s message resonates as a timely reminder of the transformative power of history, memory, and cultural identity in shaping Africa’s future.