Building global partnerships isn’t just about meetings or agreements; it’s about people coming together with shared goals and ideas. From June 9 to 15, 2025, our CEO, Dr. Afzalur Rahman, and Chief Advisor John O’Fee K.C. made a Ghana market visit. They connected with the organizations that are impacting the country’s academic and business industries. The visit was all about learning, collaboration, and opening doors for future opportunities.
Across one inspiring week, our team met with universities, chambers, and government leaders who share the same passion for innovation and professional development. Every meeting and discussion added purpose to the journey, reflecting our ongoing commitment to build global partnerships supported by the Canadian High Commission and its Trade Commissioners.
If you’re curious to see how our Ghana visit created new opportunities, keep reading the rest of the article. Each day brought new insights, stronger partnerships, and memorable moments worth sharing.
Global Conference Alliance Inc. Ghana Market Visit 2025: Day-by-Day Highlights
Each day during our visit to Ghana brought new opportunities to connect, collaborate, and learn. From the very first meeting in Accra to the cultural moments that closed the trip, the journey reflected our commitment to meaningful partnerships and lasting impact.
In the following sections, we’re sharing the day-to-day highlights of our visit, the people we met, the institutions we engaged with, and the milestones that shaped this successful mission.
Day 1 – Arrival and Alignment in Accra
Date: June 9, 2025
Location: Coconut Grove Regency Hotel, Accra
Our first day in Ghana began with a sense of excitement and purpose as we arrived in Accra. The team gathered at the Coconut Grove Regency Hotel to connect with local partners and align on the week’s objectives. The atmosphere was positive and collaborative, setting the tone for the days ahead.
Key Activities:
- Met with local partners, including Mr. Abraham Donkoh (Leedons Travel & Tour) and Ms. Stephanie Amegashie.
- Held an internal alignment meeting to review the visit agenda and key priorities.
- Discussed partnership strategies and stakeholder engagement plans.
- Shared a welcoming brunch, marking the official start of GCA’s Ghana mission.
Day 2 – Educational Partnerships with RMU and GCTU
Date: June 10, 2025
Location: Regional Maritime University (RMU) and Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU), Accra
Day 2 marked the beginning of our academic engagements in Ghana, focusing on education and collaboration. We met with two leading institutions to explore shared goals in research, innovation, and student development. Each discussion revealed the enthusiasm of Ghana’s academic community and reinforced our belief in the value of long-term partnerships between universities and international organizations.
Morning – Regional Maritime University (RMU):
- Hosted an information session introducing GCA’s mission and global programs.
- Engaged faculty and administrators in open dialogue on research and student exchange.
- Explored collaboration opportunities in academic mobility and capacity building.
- Initiated discussions toward signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Afternoon – Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU):
- Held a focused meeting with executives from the Industrial Liaison Department.
- Discussed technical education, innovation, and joint training initiatives.
- Outlined plans for a structured partnership through a formal MoU.
Day 3 – Private Sector and Government Engagements
Date: June 11, 2025
Location: Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana (CAG), Crop Estate – East Legon; Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Cantonments – Accra
As the week progressed, Day 3 opened doors for collaboration beyond academia. The GCA delegation engaged with key figures from Ghana’s private sector and government to explore new possibilities for trade and investment. These sessions strengthened Canada–Ghana relations and demonstrated how business, policy, and education can work together to drive shared growth.
Morning – Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana (CAG):
- Delivered an information session introducing GCA’s global initiatives.
- Discussed agribusiness innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities.
- Welcomed a Trade Commissioner from the Canadian High Commission to the session.
- Highlighted mutual commitments to bilateral cooperation and growth.
Afternoon – Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC):
- Met with GIPC executives to discuss the Canada Business Exploration Program (October 2025).
- Explored avenues to connect Ghanaian investors and entrepreneurs with Canadian partners.
- Identified long-term opportunities for business collaboration and investment exchange.
Day 4 – Regional Academic Outreach at KNUST, Kumasi
Date: June 12, 2025
Location: Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi
Day 4 took our journey beyond Accra to the vibrant city of Kumasi for its first regional engagement in Ghana. The visit to Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) highlighted our commitment to expanding academic partnerships across regions. The session encouraged discussions on innovation, leadership, and opportunities for mutual learning between institutions.
Key Activities:
- Hosted an information session at KNUST introducing GCA’s global programs and partnership model.
- Met with faculty members to discuss collaborative initiatives and knowledge exchange.
- Explored possibilities for future Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).
- Strengthened GCA’s regional presence in Ghana through new academic connections.
Day 5 – Stakeholder Session with Travel Partners
Date: June 13, 2025
Location: Coconut Grove Regency Hotel, Accra
The fifth day focuses on deepening relationships with travel and event partners who play a vital role in supporting GCA’s international activities. The session offered an opportunity to introduce our ongoing initiatives, discuss upcoming conferences, and identify collaboration opportunities within Ghana’s travel industry. The conversations were lively, engaging, and forward-looking, centered on building strong operational partnerships.
Key Activities:
- Conducted an information session with local travel agents and event coordinators.
- Introduced our global conference portfolio and mission.
- Shared insights on upcoming conferences and collaboration opportunities.
- Welcomed the participation of a Trade Commissioner from the Canadian High Commission.
Day 6 – Courtesy Visit to Leedons Travel & Tour
Date: June 14, 2025
Location: Leedons Travel & Tour Office, Kasoa
This day was dedicated to acknowledging and strengthening local partnerships. We visited the office of Leedons Travel & Tour, its official representative in Ghana, to discuss ongoing collaboration and future plans. The meeting reaffirmed the value of local representation in supporting international projects and building stronger communication channels.
Key Activities:
- Paid a courtesy visit to Mr. Abraham Donkoh, CEO of Leedons Travel & Tour.
- Discussed strategies for operational coordination and logistical support.
- Reviewed GCA’s upcoming activities and event schedules in Ghana.
- Strengthened the foundation for continued cooperation between both teams.
Day 7 – Cultural Visit and Reflection
Date: June 15, 2025
Location: Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Accra
The final day of the Ghana visit was one of reflection, culture, and connection. We explored the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, home to the mausoleum of Ghana’s first president. This meaningful visit offered a moment to appreciate Ghana’s rich history and the spirit of leadership that continues to inspire progress.
Key Activities:
- Visited the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park for a cultural and historical tour.
- Reflected on the week’s activities and key accomplishments.
- Engaged in discussions on future collaboration inspired by the visit.
- Captured closing moments that symbolized unity and mutual respect.
What Was the Purpose and Vision Behind Our Ghana Market Visit?
Every meaningful journey starts with purpose. The Ghana Market Visit was part of our ongoing mission to connect people, ideas, and institutions across borders. Our goal was to develop partnerships built on learning, collaboration, and shared growth between Canada and Ghana. Let’s take a quick look at the goals that inspired our visit and the vision we carried with us.
Strengthening Institutional Collaboration
One of our main goals was to build closer relationships with Ghana’s leading universities and professional bodies. We wanted to create academic bridges that encourage research exchange, student participation, and collaborative events. By engaging directly with decision-makers, we could better understand how both sides can work together to make education more globally connected and impactful.
Promoting Cross-cultural Exchange
We believe learning goes beyond classrooms and conference rooms; it grows through people and shared experiences. The visit gave us the chance to experience Ghana’s warmth, creativity, and openness firsthand. By building stronger cultural connections, we hope to create future programs where participants from both nations can learn, share, and move forward together.
Exploring Regional Opportunities
Ghana’s growing academic and business ecosystem presents exciting potential for future conferences and professional programs. Part of our mission was to identify new venues, regional partners, and collaborative networks that can host impactful events. We saw how vibrant and resourceful Ghana’s regions are, and how they align perfectly with GCA’s goal of connecting diverse voices.
Enhancing Canada–Ghana Relations
This visit also strengthened our connection with the Canadian High Commission, whose support and active involvement played a key role throughout the trip. Together, we discussed ways to create long-term initiatives that bridge both countries through knowledge, entrepreneurship, and innovation. It was a clear reminder of how powerful collaboration can be when two nations share the same purpose.
Expanding Our Global Presence
Finally, the Ghana market visit 2025 marked an important step in our broader vision for Africa. As a part of our ongoing global conference activities, we focus on establishing a stronger presence across the continent, supporting communities through leadership, and professional growth. Every conversation, handshake, and partnership in Ghana helped bring that vision one step closer to reality.
Our Experience and Learnings From the Visit
Every journey leaves behind lessons that stay long after it ends, and our time in Ghana was no different. What began as a week of meetings and engagements quickly became a learning experience filled with connection, discovery, and reflection. Each encounter added a new layer of understanding, and here are some of the most meaningful takeaways we brought home with us.
A Genuine Desire for Collaboration
At every university and organization we visited, we felt a shared eagerness to connect. The openness from educators, entrepreneurs, and administrators made discussions feel natural and purposeful. It reminded us that true collaboration doesn’t come from obligation, it comes from mutual curiosity and a real desire to create something that benefits everyone involved.
The Strength of Local Partnerships
Working closely with Leedons Travel & Tour showed us how vital local knowledge is for international success. Their support made everything flow smoothly, from scheduling meetings to coordinating logistics. We learned that having trusted local partners isn’t just helpful; it’s essential for building relationships that are respectful, efficient, and rooted in cultural understanding.
How Different Sectors Can Grow Together
Our engagements with the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana and the Ghana Investment Promotion Center revealed how powerful it is when education, business, and policy align. These conversations showed us that collaboration across sectors can create practical outcomes, turning shared ideas into projects that strengthen communities, encourage innovation, and drive sustainable economic growth.
Support That Strengthens Purpose
Throughout the visit, the involvement of the Canadian High Commission reminded us of the importance of support networks in international collaboration. Their presence gave our meetings greater depth and meaning, emphasizing shared goals between both countries. It was reassuring to see how institutional cooperation can reinforce a mission and inspire long-term commitment.
Lessons Found Beyond Meetings
Some of our most memorable lessons came from moments that weren’t planned — chatting with students, exploring local markets, or hearing stories during travel between cities. These simple experiences offered deeper insight into the spirit of Ghana. They reminded us that learning often happens outside the agenda, in quiet conversations and genuine human exchanges.
The Human Side of Global Work
More than anything, this visit reminded us that our work is about people. Every successful partnership begins with empathy, patience, and understanding. We left Ghana feeling enriched not just with new agreements or ideas, but with friendships and lessons that will continue to guide how we connect and collaborate across borders.
Why You Should Consider a Market Visit to Ghana?
Ghana isn’t just a beautiful destination — it’s a country full of energy, innovation, and opportunity. For anyone looking to explore partnerships, investment, or academic collaboration in Africa, a market visit to Ghana offers a firsthand look into one of the region’s most stable and forward-thinking economies. Here’s why visiting Ghana can be a valuable experience for you.
Stability That Builds Confidence
Political stability and a welcoming environment make Ghana one of the most reliable countries in Africa for international engagement. Visitors often find a sense of trust and openness that encourages productive discussions. It’s a place where partnerships grow naturally, supported by institutions that value professionalism and genuine collaboration.
Growing Education and Innovation Scene
Ghana’s universities and technical institutes are creating spaces for learning that extend beyond borders. During a market visit, you’ll find educators and students eager to connect through research, training, and exchange programs. Engaging directly with these institutions helps identify real opportunities to co-create knowledge and share expertise that benefits both sides.
Gateway to West African Opportunity
Strategically positioned in the heart of West Africa, Ghana offers access to one of the continent’s fastest-growing regions. Its developing infrastructure and growing middle class create a foundation for business and education expansion. Visiting in person allows you to explore how Ghana can serve as a regional base for long-term collaboration.
Supportive Institutions and Open Policies
Government agencies like the Ghana Investment Promotion Center (GIPC) are known for their transparent and partner-friendly approach. They actively encourage collaboration across sectors and welcome new ideas from global partners. Meeting local officials in person helps you understand how to align your vision with Ghana’s ongoing development priorities.
Growing Ties Between Ghana and Canada
Partnerships between Ghana and Canada continue to strengthen through education, business, and diplomacy. With the active involvement of the Canadian High Commission, collaborations have become even more dynamic. A market visit allows you to witness this relationship firsthand and explore how your organization can contribute to shared goals.
Culture That Connects People
Beyond meetings and presentations, Ghana offers an unforgettable cultural experience. From historic landmarks to local hospitality, every interaction brings a deeper sense of understanding. Engaging with the culture helps build empathy, appreciation, and personal connections, the true foundations of any meaningful global partnership.
How Can You Prepare for an International Market Visit Like Ghana?
Preparing for an international market visit is more than just planning a schedule; it’s about preparing your mindset. Visiting a new country means entering a new rhythm of culture, communication, and connection. Based on our experience in Ghana, here are some insights and suggestions to help you prepare for a journey that’s both meaningful and productive.
Learn Before You Land
Start your preparation long before you board the plane. Read about the country’s history, economy, and key institutions you plan to visit. Understanding the local context makes every discussion more relevant and respectful. When we arrived in Ghana, this background knowledge helped us engage confidently and connect with our partners on shared goals.
Partner With Trusted Local Experts
Nothing replaces the value of a reliable local contact. Our collaboration with Leedons Travel & Tour proved essential — they handled logistics, managed schedules, and offered insights that only someone on the ground could provide. A strong local partner helps you focus on building relationships while ensuring smooth coordination throughout your visit.
Respect the Local Culture
Cultural sensitivity is at the heart of meaningful collaboration. Learn a few basic greetings in the local language, understand traditional gestures, and show genuine appreciation for local customs. In Ghana, a warm smile and polite introduction went a long way. Respect creates comfort, and comfort opens doors to deeper conversations and stronger partnerships.
Stay Flexible and Observant
Even the best plans can shift once you’re on the ground. Traffic, timing, or unplanned opportunities might change your agenda — and that’s okay. Stay open to new experiences and spontaneous invitations. During our visit, some of our most valuable conversations came from moments we hadn’t scheduled but simply embraced.
Document and Reflect Daily
Keep a small journal or digital notes throughout your trip. Write down who you meet, what you learn, and how you feel. Reflection helps turn experience into understanding. During our Ghana visit, these notes became a bridge for follow-up communication and helped us remember the details that truly mattered.
Follow Up With Intention
When you return home, don’t let your connections fade. Send thank-you messages, share meeting recaps, and plan future touchpoints. Following up shows sincerity and builds long-term trust. Our follow-ups after Ghana helped us turn conversations into collaborations and set the foundation for future initiatives across Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Ghana Visit
If you’re thinking about planning your own market visit to Ghana, you probably have a few questions about what to expect on arrival, to how to prepare for meetings and local experiences. Drawing from our own journey, here are some answers to help you travel with confidence, purpose, and an open mind.
What Made Ghana the Right Destination for Your Market Visit?
Ghana felt like the right place because it combines opportunity with warmth. It’s one of Africa’s most stable and welcoming countries, with a growing economy and vibrant institutions. We wanted to experience that energy firsthand to connect with educators, entrepreneurs, and leaders shaping Ghana’s future.
How Long Did Your Team Stay, and What Did The Schedule Look Like?
We spent a full week in Ghana from June 9 to June 15, 2025. Each day had a mix of official meetings, academic sessions, and cultural experiences. We met universities, chambers, and government representatives while leaving space for spontaneous discussions that often turned into valuable connections.
How Did You Manage Logistics and Coordination on the Ground?
A trusted local partner made everything easier. Leedons Travel & Tour supported us from start to finish, arranging transportation, confirming meetings, and guiding us through local customs. Having reliable local expertise saved us time and allowed us to focus on what mattered most: building relationships.
What’s One Thing Travelers Should Know Before Visiting Ghana?
Come prepared, but also come open. Ghana runs at its own pace. Things flow smoothly when you’re patient, flexible, and respectful of local rhythm. A smile, a thank-you, or a friendly conversation often opens more doors than a formal agenda ever could.
Is Ghana Safe and Easy to Navigate for International Visitors?
Absolutely. Ghana is widely known as one of Africa’s safest and most peaceful nations. The people are kind, English is widely spoken, and the atmosphere is welcoming. Like any destination, staying aware in busy areas is wise, but overall, we felt secure and supported throughout our stay.
What Did You Learn Personally From This Visit?
We learned that collaboration begins with listening. Each meeting and conversation deepened our understanding of Ghana’s culture, education, and business environment. It reminded us that the best partnerships are built on empathy, respect, and shared purpose — not just agreements or paperwork.
Would You Encourage Others to Plan a Market Visit to Ghana?
Without a doubt. Visiting Ghana opens your eyes to a country full of energy, talent, and possibility. Whether you’re exploring academic collaborations or business ventures, the experience will leave a lasting impression. Go with curiosity, listen more than you speak, and you’ll come back inspired and enriched.
What’s the Best Way to Follow Up After the Visit?
Stay connected with the people you meet. Send thank-you messages, share updates, and propose next steps while your visit is still fresh in everyone’s mind. Ghanaian partners appreciate sincerity and consistency. Small gestures go a long way in maintaining lasting relationships.
Wrapping Up
Our Ghana Market Visit was a journey of connection, learning, and shared purpose. Each meeting, discussion, and cultural encounter gave us a deeper understanding of how collaboration can shape real impact. Ghana welcomed us with warmth, openness, and a sense of possibility that will continue to inspire our work.
Throughout the visit, our team captured hundreds of photos that tell the story of our journey. Each image holds a piece of the warmth, collaboration, and shared purpose we experienced in Ghana, serving as a visual reminder of a week that truly inspired us all.
