Welcome
The Itinerary
In celebration of Kojo’s 50th, we’re honored to guide you on a voyage to explore Ghana, our family’s legacy, and the history of the African diaspora. The Return Home symbolizes each of our journeys back to the place where we feel centered and where we belong. Come with an open mind, a full heart and an empty stomach. We’ll take care of the rest.
Our official gathering spot is the Marriott at Liberation Road, Airport City in Accra. There will be transportation to and from all hosted events from the Marriott.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 26TH
Day One
Akwaaba (Welcome)
Our family is excited to meet you! Kojo’s father, Sam Dufu, will share family history at this welcome reception and we’ll formally introduce guests to one another via a cultural tradition called Amandze. Seamstress and tailor will be on site for guests who want bespoke local attire sewn in time for Saturday’s party.
Marriott Lobby
4:30pm
Gathering Spot and Time
Bus departs Marriott
5:00pm
Transportation
Aunty Esther Cobba’s Home - 85 2nd Circular Road, Cantonments, Accra
Location
Comfortable festive -
linen shirts and flowy dresses
Attire
Bus arrives at Marriott
8:30pm
Transportation Back
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27th
Day Two
Living For The City
Get to know Accra and Ghanaian history and culture with a tour of the capital city. You’ll visit Black Star Square, James Town, W.E.B. DuBois Center, Markola Market and Kwame Nkrumah’s Memorial Park and Museum. The tour will include lunch and market shopping.
Marriott Lobby
9:00am
Gathering Spot and Time
Bus departs Marriott
9:30am
Transportation
Various Local Stops
Location
Cool casual- wear your walking shoes.
If you’re Divine Nine wear your tee.
Attire
Bus arrives at Marriott
5:00pm
Transportation Back
Evening Dinner
Contact the Keynect team for dinner reservations. View restaurant options here. We encourage you to get plenty of sleep as Thursday is an early rise.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28TH
Day Three
The Pilgrimage
Between 1525 and 1866, over 12 million African people were forced into slavery. We’ll take a day trip 90 miles west of Accra to visit Cape Coast Castle, where thousands awaited the treacherous middle passage. We’ll include a stop for lunch. Bring your favorite snacks for the road trip.
Marriott Lobby
5:00am
Gathering Spot and Time
Bus departs Marriott
5:30am
Transportation
Cape Coast Castle - 90 miles West of Accra, approximately 3 hour drive
Location
All white - wear comfortable footwear
Attire
Bus arrives at Marriott
7:00pm
Transportation Back
Evening Dinner & Nightlife
Contact the Keynect team for dinner and nightlife reservations. Accra has a vibrant cultural and music scene. You can view restaurant options here.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29th
Day Four
Art Is Life
Grace, the owner of Gracia Fabrics, has been making batik in Ghana for over three decades. After she teaches us the history of the ancient art form we'll flex our creative muscles in a batik making workshop, then we'll enjoy a local lunch at Chez Afrique.
Marriott Lobby
10:00am
Gathering Spot and Time
Bus departs Marriott
10:30am
Transportation
Gracia Fabrics, 49 Lagos Ave, Accra
Location
Ink stainable casual - it might get messy
Attire
Bus arrives at Marriott
4:00pm
Transportation Back
Dinner & AfroFuture
Contact the Keynect team for dinner reservations and tickets to the hottest music festival in Ghana. AfroFuture is a celebration of Africa’s diverse culture and the vibrant work of African creatives and entrepreneurs.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30TH
Day Five
Long Live The King
Well my friends the time has come…leave your worries behind as you enter Sandbox, Accra’s breathtaking new beach club. Come ready to laugh loud, live fully and dance the night away in honor of Kojo’s 50th trip around the sun. Join us for a private reception and seated dinner, then more guests will arrive as we let the music play on…play on…play on…
Marriott Lobby
4:00pm
Gathering Spot and Time
Bus departs Marriott
4:30pm
Transportation
Sandbox Beach Club
4th Otswe Street South, Accra
Location
Semi-formal or Ghana traditional in full living color
Attire
Bus will make shuttle rounds
from 9pm until 1am
Transportation Back
Morning Optional Activities
Contact the Keynect team for various activities including in-room spa services, get your hair braided, or just relax by the pool.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31ST
Day Six
There’s No Place Like Home
Join us at the Dufu family home for local drumming, drinks and kebabs as we embark on our final ceremony, recognize the last day of Kwanzaa and prepare to usher in 2024. This farewell reception serves as the final event for our guided journey. We hope you leave nourished and inspired by The Return Home.
Marriott Lobby
2:00pm
Gathering Spot and Time
Bus departs Marriott
2:30pm
Transportation
Dufu Family Residence
53 Kofi Annan Street, Accra (house #65)
Location
Conscious casual
Attire
Bus arrives at Marriott
6:30pm
Transportation Back
Morning Optional Activities
Contact the Keynect team for various local activities including worship services, sleep in or just relax by the pool.
Evening Dinner & Festivities
Accra will be jumpin’ for New Years! Contact the Keynect team for access to the sexy clubs and beach parties.
