Heritage tourism in Africa surges as diaspora travellers reclaim ancestry and explore roots in Ghana, Benin, Sierra Leone, and more
A rising wave of heritage tourism is reshaping travel patterns across Africa, with Black travellers increasingly seeking cultural and ancestral connections, according to travel and government sources.
The trend has accelerated as nations including Ghana, Benin, Sierra Leone, and Guinea-Bissau offer citizenship to diaspora members with African lineage.
Emomotimi Agama, Director-General of Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission, said earlier this year that diaspora-focused policies are part of a broader effort to strengthen connections and boost tourism, noting that journeys once driven by curiosity are now viewed as homecomings.
For London-born Sofia Askel, visits to Senegal and The Gambia became transformative after uncovering her grandfather’s history.
“It was almost as if my body knew that I was touching the earth of my ancestors,” she said, describing the emotional impact of reconnecting with her roots.
Superstar Ciara also highlighted the cultural resonance of diaspora citizenship after receiving Beninese nationality under the My Afro Origins law.
The initiative allows descendants of enslaved people to claim official recognition, spotlighting the Beninese government’s effort to enhance cultural tourism and strengthen ties with the African diaspora.
The trend is mirrored in Ghana’s Right of Abode programme, Sierra Leone’s 2000 Right of Abode Act, and Guinea-Bissau’s Decade of Return Initiative, all offering pathways for diaspora members to live, work, and participate fully in their ancestral homelands.
Data supports the growing popularity of heritage tourism. Skyscanner reported a 15 percent year-on-year increase in UK flight searches to Accra in July 2025, driven by newly launched routes to Ghana.
Conde Nast Traveller identified ‘ancestry travel’ as a leading trend, noting the emotional significance of homecoming ceremonies facilitated by African Ancestry and similar organisations.
Sandy Abena, founder of Abenafrica, emphasised the broader social impact of such initiatives.
“Due to slavery, people were taken out of Africa by force. I can come back to Africa, but officially, I’m still French. Now, the passport officially shows that we are finally back home,” she said.
Younger generations are blending leisure with roots discovery, exploring local restaurants, nightlife, and cultural experiences while cultivating a sense of belonging.
The phenomenon, tourism analysts say, is not only redefining travel patterns but also fostering economic and cultural engagement across African nations.
With governments increasingly facilitating diaspora citizenship and ancestral reconnections, heritage tourism in Africa is expected to continue its upward trajectory, offering both profound personal meaning and a powerful boost to the continent’s travel economy.
Business3 years ago
