Uncover the dark history of Ghana’s slave trade. Explore the harrowing journey along the Old Kete-Krachi Slave Route, where countless Africans were forced into slavery. Learn about the tragic role of Nkonya Tepo and the Volta River in this heartbreaking chapter of history.
For many Diasporans, particularly those with Ghanaian ancestry, Ghana is a land steeped in mystery and a longing to connect with their heritage. The echoes of the slave trade resonate across the country, and the Volta River serves as a poignant reminder of this dark chapter in history.
The Old Kete-Krachi Slave Route, a network of paths that snaked through Ghana’s interior, served as a major artery for the transportation of enslaved people during the colonial era. This route, with Kete-Krachi and Salaga as key centers for capturing individuals, transported captives to the coast via the Volta River. Nkonya Tepo, a riverside village, played a particularly grim role in this trade. Due to its proximity to the river, able-bodied men and women from Nkonya Tepo were likely snatched and forced into a life of servitude.
Today, the Old Kete-Krachi Slave Route stands as a monument to a period of immense suffering. Yet, for Diasporans seeking to reconnect with their roots, it also presents a powerful opportunity to delve into their ancestry. By tracing the footsteps of their ancestors along the slave route, Diasporans can gain a deeper understanding of their heritage and the resilience of the African spirit.
By Joseph Bekoe
