Most people know by now that chale wote is a Ga phrase which means “let’s go friend”. Well after six editions so far, I’ll be surprised if you didn’t, …more so if you have never headed the literal invitation that the name of the 12 day festival of arts and culture gives.( You’ve been missing out since!)
This event takes place anually in the very heart of Accra Ghana( the hub being the area around post office through to the Ussher fort, James fort prison and Jamestown). The 2019 edition of chale wote was dubbed pidgin imaginarium, started on the 14th to the 24th August.
The event showcased a variety of arts from films to music,to the colourful paintings, graffiti and murals, as well as concerts, games, masquerade parade etc.
Wading through the crowds that had come to partake in the festivities, the streets of Accra warmed it’s guests, up to our local drinks and dishes, and our very own culture…one thing is clear; this festival has come to stay, too bad for those who could not attend but, we’re giving you a peep of some wonderful moments.
So next year, mark that time on your calendar, to do list, etc, when that cool friend says ” let’s go friend!”, don’t miss out, “chale baaho wote, kaa fe dull …(Friend, come on, let’s go, don’t be dull😉)”
And oh, always have a 1 cedi note in your pocket, you never know who you are taking a photograph of !
Writers: Elizabeth Otoo & Anane
Photos taken with Techno Spark 3
Photo credit – Emmanuel Kena Duodu
