The Ghana Royal Visit to South Africa, held recently over two days, marked a significant milestone in strengthening diplomatic, cultural, and developmental relations between Ghana and South Africa. The initiative, expertly coordinated by Professor Martha Chadyiwa, Associate Professor in the Department of Public Health at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), successfully brought together key stakeholders and ensured the seamless execution of the programme.
“The Ghana Royal Visit represents more than a ceremonial exchange; it is a platform for meaningful collaboration and cultural diplomacy,” said Professor Chadyiwa.
The delegation was led by Nana Obokese Ampah I, representing His Majesty Daasebre Kwebu Ewusi VII, Paramount Chief of the Abladze Traditional Area and Board Chairman of the Ghana Chieftaincy Awards. The visit formed part of the broader 3rd Ghana Chieftaincy Awards and Royal Investment Summit, scheduled to take place in Kumasi, Ghana, in October 2025.
Hosted by the Office of Kgosana Koketso Rakhudu & Partners (OOKKR), the Koketso Rakhudu Foundation, and SMU, the visit included engagements in Rustenburg and surrounding villages, as well as academic collaboration at SMU. The initiative received strong support from the Black Star Experience Secretariat, the National House of Chiefs, the Obokese Foundation, and the Ghana Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
On Day One, the delegation commenced their visit at Ramokoka Village, where they were warmly welcomed. A graduation ceremony hosted by the Koketso Rakhudu Foundation celebrated local achievements and offered cultural immersion for the Ghanaian delegates. The evening concluded with a formal Welcome Dinner at the Royal Marang Hotel, featuring diplomatic introductions, presentations on the ten-year impact of OOKKR, and cultural exchanges, including ceremonial gift-giving and blessings.
Reflecting on the day, Nana Obokese Ampah I said: “We are honoured to witness the resilience and vibrancy of South African communities. This visit strengthens the bonds between our nations and underscores the value of traditional leadership in modern society.”
Day Two focused on cultural immersion and academic engagement. The delegation visited multiple villages, gaining insight into South African traditional heritage and community initiatives. A traditional lunch provided informal networking opportunities, fostering cross-cultural dialogue. At SMU, the delegation was formally received by Vice-Chancellor Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic and Research, Professor Dini Mawela, and senior academic leaders. Discussions highlighted collaborative opportunities in healthcare education, research, and community health projects.
Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus commented: “Engaging with the Ghanaian delegation allows us to expand our academic and community partnerships, creating shared opportunities for development and innovation across borders.”
The visit achieved significant outcomes across multiple domains. Foundations for educational collaboration were established, community development initiatives were planned, and cultural diplomacy was strengthened through ceremonial and interpersonal exchanges. Logistical arrangements were executed efficiently, ensuring a smooth and culturally sensitive programme.
Strategically, the visit established a framework for long-term Pan-African collaboration, combining institutional partnerships, grassroots engagement, and traditional leadership diplomacy. “Our aim is to build lasting relationships that empower communities and promote Pan-African solidarity,” said Dr Kennedy Amphofo, a member of the Ghana delegation.
Looking ahead, recommendations include extending future visits to allow deeper community integration, incorporating project development workshops, and strengthening follow-up mechanisms to implement collaborative initiatives.
The Ghana Royal Visit successfully strengthened cultural diplomacy, promoted cross-border academic partnerships, and advanced Pan-African collaboration. By blending formal institutional engagement with authentic cultural immersion, the mission laid a strong foundation for continued cooperation between Ghanaian and South African institutions, affirming the enduring significance of traditional leadership in modern development.
By Tumelo Moila
