Kwame Nkrumah was a Ghanaian politician, revolutionary, and Pan-Africanist who played a pivotal role in leading Ghana to independence from British colonial rule in 1957, making it the first African nation to achieve independence. As Ghana’s first Prime Minister and later its first President, Nkrumah championed socialist policies, economic modernization, and African unity, envisioning a politically and economically integrated continent. He was a key figure in the establishment of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and promoted industrialization and infrastructure development. However, his leadership was marked by increasing authoritarianism, and he was eventually overthrown in a military coup in 1966 while on a state visit to China. Despite his later years in exile, Nkrumah remains a symbol of African liberation and self-determination.
The Memorial Park to Kwame Nkrumah was opened in 1992 to honour his contribution to the independence movement in Ghana.
The centre of the park is the magnificent mausoleum where Nkrumah and his wife, Fathia Nkrumah, are buried. In front of the mausoleum are large pools with fountains – when we visited the pools were sadly empty. At the end of the pools was the statue of the man himself, which is where our tour really started.
From the statue, we moved inside the mausoleum to where the tombs of Kwane and Fathia are buried. It is always a solemn experience visiting a tomb, and this was no different.
The park also includes a museum that tells the story of Nkrumah from his childhood, through his rise to power and then to exile and finally death. The collections in the museum include personal artefacts of Nkrumah. We had no knowledge of Kwame Nkrumah before this visit, and it was interesting to hear about him and his role in the independence of Ghana and his commitment to African unity as well as the controversial views he held which ultimately led to his downfall and exile.
Planning your visit
The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra, Ghana, is a significant site dedicated to the country’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. The park features a mausoleum, museum, and beautifully landscaped gardens, offering visitors a deep insight into Ghana’s journey to independence and Nkrumah’s pivotal role in it.
Operating Hours:
- Weekdays (Monday to Friday): 8:30 AM to 11:00 PM
- Weekends (Saturday and Sunday): 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Admission Fees:
For Ghanaians:
- Adults: GHS 25
- Tertiary Students: GHS 15
- Senior High/Junior High Students: GHS 10
- Children: GHS 5
For Non-Ghanaians:
- Adults: GHS 100
- Tertiary Students: GHS 60
- Children: GHS 30
These fees contribute to the maintenance and operations of the park.
Highlights of the Park:
Mausoleum: Designed by Don Arthur, the mausoleum is the final resting place of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and his wife, Fathia Nkrumah. Its unique structure symbolizes peace in Akan culture.
Museum: The museum houses personal belongings, books, photographs, and artefacts related to Nkrumah’s life and Ghana’s independence movement.
Audio-Visual Fountain: A recent addition, this fountain offers a captivating display with water movements synchronized to music, enhancing the visitor experience.
Visitor Tips:
Guided Tours: The park offers guided tours in English, providing detailed historical context. It’s advisable to check the availability of guides upon arrival.
Photography: The park’s scenic beauty makes it ideal for photography. No photography is allowed inside the museum,
For more information or inquiries, you can contact the park administration at:
- Phone: +233 53 007 6746 / +233 50 449 3993
- Email: info@knmp.gov.gh
- Website: knmp.gov.gh
The best time to visit
The best time to visit Accra, Ghana, is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this period, the weather is warm but less humid, with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and beach outings.
Seasonal Breakdown:
November to April (Best Time)
- Dry weather, less humidity
- Average temperatures: 24°C – 32°C (75°F – 90°F)
- Ideal for visiting beaches, exploring markets, and attending cultural festivals
May to October (Rainy Season)
- Heavy rains, high humidity
- Some roads may become muddy and difficult to navigate
- However, it’s a good time for budget travelers as hotel prices may be lower
Best Months for Events & Festivals:
- December – Festive season, with major events like Afrochella (now Afrofuture) and Detty December parties
- March – Ghana Independence Day (March 6th) celebrations
- August – Chale Wote Street Art Festival in Jamestown
For the best experience, aim for December to February, when the weather is at its most pleasant, and Accra is full of energy with festivals and events.
Where to stay in Accra
La Villa Boutique Hotel
La Villa Boutique Hotel is a 3-star establishment located in the Osu district of Accra, Ghana. The hotel offers 30 comfortable rooms, each equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms. Some rooms also feature private balconies with city views.
Guests can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, a sun terrace, and a fitness center. The on-site Soprano Restaurant serves a variety of cuisines, including African, American, Chinese, British, Italian, and European dishes. The hotel also offers services such as airport shuttles, car rentals, and concierge assistance.
