MUSICIAN and entrepreneur Mzbel has officially launched Afro Essence Village, a cultural and heritage destination in Gbawe, Accra, built to celebrate Ghanaian art, tradition and creativity.

The Saturday, August 22 launch pulled in a lively mix of entertainment stars, traditional leaders, creatives and community members. 

Cultural dancers kept the crowd entertained with traditional performances, children had their own corner of activities to enjoy, and colourful art displays gave the venue a warm, welcoming feel, part gallery, part playground for culture lovers.

Guests spotted on the day included actress Akuapem Poloo, veteran singer Yvonne Ohene Gyan, Gbawe Mantse Nii Boi Kojo II who cut the sod, and Naomi Borley Alabi Esq., Acting Deputy CEO for Finance and Administration at Ghana Tourism Development Company (GTDC).

Speaking on what inspired the project at the launch, Mzbel said her goal is simple: put Gbawe on the map through arts, culture and tradition. She also hopes the space can bring Ghana's creative community together, giving artistes and creatives a platform to showcase their work.

Mzbel also shared plans to grow the facility into what she wants to eventually call the Gbawe Arts Centre, and she called on the traditional leadership of Gbawe to back the initiative.

Afro Essence Village is expected to grow into a tourist attraction, giving both Ghanaians and visitors a relaxed setting to experience African culture up close.

She also addressed common misconceptions about African cultural works, which are sometimes wrongly tied to spirituality and negativity.

“This is our culture. This is us. This is our creative industry. While spirituality has its place, Afro Essence Village is purely a space for culture, creativity and heritage preservation, not a spiritual centre,” she added.