During 2005-2007, I was fortunate to be part of Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership (KARL) Program's Class VIII.  30 of us from across the state were selected to participate and I couldn't have landed with a better group of people if I'd tried.  My friends turned out to be some of the smartest, most innovative and fun-loving people you can imagine.  Over the 2 years, we met 12 times: 10 times were at various locations around the state where we learned about the area, their assets and challenges and how local leadership was addressing the situations.  In March of 2006, we spent a week in Washington D.C. to gain exposure to our national government, special interest organizations, lobbying groups, etc.  The culmination of the program was a 2 week international study seminar.  For this class, Ghana was chosen.

 

The trip was amazing.  Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience I would have never had on my own.  The people of Ghana are it's greatest national resource, having demonstrated to the rest of Africa and the world that there can be a reasonably peaceful transition from colonial rule to democracy.  Ghana celebrated 50 years as an independent nation shortly before our arrival.  Soon, they expect to have their 3rd peaceful transition of power following open elections.  In general, the people are friendly and peace-loving, not to mention very helpful to large groups of white travelers.  Over and over, we'd hear the word "Awkwaba" which means "you are welcome here."  In addition, we always felt very safe, which can not be said for so many places anymore.  Our trip was greatly facilitated by KSU's Dr. Vincent Amanor-Boadu, who heads the Ag Econ Depts' Innovation Center.  Dr. Vincent, as a native Ghanaian, made sure we had a great time and experienced the authentic Ghana.  Thanks Vincent!

 

Enjoy the photos and pick up the phone if you'd like to know more about my Ghana experience.

 

Hover over each photo for a description.  Click any photo to enlarge.