The 2026 Kwahu Easter Paragliding Festival officially launched on Friday, April 3, at the Odweanoma Mountain in the Eastern Region, drawing local and international thrill-seekers to one of Ghana’s most anticipated annual events.
The Kwahu South Municipal Chief Executive, Mr. Effah Osei Bonsu, officially welcomed participants at the opening ceremony, praising the area’s unique topography and favorable wind conditions as ideal for the sport. He urged all patrons to adhere strictly to safety protocols and commended the organisers, volunteers, and stakeholders for their dedication.
“Welcome once again to Kwahu South on behalf of the municipality,” Mr. Osei Bonsu said.
Organised by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) under the patronage of President John Dramani Mahama, the festival has grown into a major highlight of Ghana’s Easter calendar since its introduction in 2005. This year’s edition runs until April 6, with support from the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Ms. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, and GTA Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Maame Efua Houadjeto.
First-Time Flyers Brave the Heights
Among the first to soar from the cliff edge were two European volunteers based in Abetifi, who shared their dramatic first-flight experiences with reporters.
Bram, a Dutch national on a year-long volunteer placement, faced a tense start. His first two take-off attempts were aborted by his tandem pilot as onlookers watched. On his third attempt, he successfully lifted off—notably leaving one fallen shoe behind on the launch pad.
Minerva, an Italian volunteer who has been in Ghana for five months, openly admitted her fear before take-off. “I am afraid because I have to run down the cliff,” she told reporters. “But I’ve talked to people who did it last year and they said it’s amazing. So I’m going to do it.”
She completed her flight without incident, describing the festival as exceeding all expectations. “I’ve never seen anything like it,” Minerva said. “It’s really busy and colourful, and full of music and dancing.”
Both volunteers said they had no prior knowledge of the event before arriving in Ghana, adding that information about the festival spread largely through residents in Abetifi.
Beyond Paragliding
The festival features tandem paragliding flights, aerial displays, safety demonstrations, and tourism exhibitions. Beyond the skies, the Kwahu area is hosting street carnivals, musical concerts, cultural performances, food bazaars, and exhibitions of Made-in-Ghana products. The Kwahu Business Forum is also taking place from April 3 to 4.
The Ghana Tourism Authority said it is working closely with the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council, traditional authorities, security agencies, and private sector players to ensure order and safety throughout the celebrations.
Minerva said she hopes to return next year, whether to fly again or simply watch from the ground. Bram, after completing his flight over Odweanoma Mountain, appeared equally satisfied.
