Tema: The Tema Eco-Tourism Centre has commemorated the centenary birthday of WOI Joseph Ashitey Hammond, a veteran of the Second World War, by establishing a museum in his honor. This new museum aims to celebrate his significant contributions to both the military and the nation's development.
According to Ghana News Agency, the museum, situated at the Eco-Tourism Centre in Tema Community One, features a collection of photographs documenting pre-independence and post-independence activities, colonial rule, and artefacts from the era. It also showcases minerals like bauxite and manganese, offering visitors an educational insight into Ghana's historical landscape.
Mr. Sefa Broni, CEO of the Tema Eco-Tourism Centre, emphasized the museum's role in preserving Ghana's rich history and providing the residents of Tema and surrounding areas with firsthand information regarding colonialism and the independence era. Additionally, the facility highlights Ghana's mineral resources and vegetation, aligning with the centre's primary mission to protect and preserve the environment for future generations.
Mr. Broni outlined plans to organize exhibitions and funfairs to attract visitors, with future ambitions to expand the museum's collection to include currencies from every country, global minerals, and over 20,000 antiques and artefacts. The centre currently grows four cash crops-cocoa, coffee, para rubber, and shea trees-on its premises, underscoring their socio-economic benefits.
The entry fee is set at GHS10.00 for adults and GHS2.00 for schoolchildren, with the centre aiming to serve as an educational and research hub. Mr. Broni reassured the community of efforts to maintain the facility, including measures to prevent disruptions from stray animals by consulting with the wildlife division.
WOI Joseph Ashitey Hammond expressed heartfelt gratitude for the honor and emphasized the museum's role as a legacy for future generations. He shared insights into Ghana's history and encouraged guests to learn from the country's pre-independence leaders. In a symbolic gesture, he planted a coffee plant named 'Ashitey Coffee,' continuing a family tradition linked to his grandfather, a Ga chief and cocoa buyer.
Rev. Father John Brenya of Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Tema Community Two, who dedicated the facility, highlighted the divine significance of forests and trees, urging the public to engage in afforestation practices to preserve Earth's natural heritage.
