Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park
Capture the rich history, personal artefacts, political journey and final resting place of the first president of Ghana – Dr Kwame Nkrumah. Situated in Accra the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park (KNMP) has now reopened (July 2023) after one year of renovations. Visitors can pay respect to Dr Kwame Nkrumah (1909 – 1972) at The Mausoleum.
The Park was once the old polo grounds (reserved for British colonists) and was the political gathering where Kwame Nkrumah delivered a speech on March 5th 1957 (eve of Independence day) declaring Ghana an Independent country.
The KNMP consists of Presidential Library, Museum, Artistic Freedom Wall, Mausoleum, Luscious grounds, Gift Shop, Restaurant, Event space, Training centre. The venue can now be seen from the main High Street with illuminated lighting at night.
As you enter the main building an open foyer area displays Dr Kwame Nkrumah car. Once you have purchased your ticket (ghs 25 Ghanaian, ghs 100 non- Ghanaians, children from ghs 5 and students), you will also have access to the main outside grounds.
The Park grounds
The Freedom Wall a new feature showcases variation of faces of Dr Kwame Nkrumah alongside one of his famous quotes and black star.
Many trees have been planted by visiting African presidents and dignitaries – the signs have been replaced with wooden plaques.
Sooooo glad that there is now water – it makes a huge difference to the significance of the trumpet statues and the giant statue of Kwame Nkrumah. The water fountain is regulated by played highlife music, which adds to the ambience or atmosphere.
The Museum has now been divided in to 4 sections showcasing pictures, books, personal belongings. (and the A/C is working). No pictures/recording allowed in the museum.
An addition next to the museum is a long corridor highlighted with famous quotes. Also includes a looped audio showing the independent speech that leads to an outdoor platform with a backdrop of the famous independent speech picture.
Everywhere you walk, you can’t help but take a picture or chill out on a bench. If its your first time attending, you can request a tour guide within the park. There are many benches scattered. But the large seating and table area can make a great day for family or friends gathering especially whilst listening to the background of high-life music.
Ayekoo to the Nkrumists who campaigned for the renovations and the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture and stakeholders who steered the initiative. As a Tour Host I will have the pleasure of accompanying you to KNMP as part of the Accra City Walk. My first visit was with a friend, but I also went the following day with the TORGAG.
Bless Sister E
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