Rocky Dawuni Named Ambassador to the Wechiau Hippopotamus Sanctuary
On Tuesday, March 11, 2025, renowned reggae artist and multiple award-winner Rocky Dawuni was named the official ambassador to the Wechiau Hippopotamus Sanctuary. The announcement was made in Wechiau, the capital of the Wa West District in Ghana’s Upper West Region, a region famous for its large population of hippopotamuses. This makes Wechiau a significant center for tourism in the country.
Recognizing the sanctuary’s importance to Ghana’s tourism industry, the National Tourism Authority has appointed Rocky Dawuni, a four-time Grammy nominee, as ambassador to help promote the sanctuary globally.
A special event was held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, to formally welcome Dawuni. The ceremony was attended by local leaders, including the traditional chief of Wechiau, as well as tour guides, community members, media representatives, and other stakeholders from the area. During his visit, Rocky Dawuni expressed his admiration for the community’s warm welcome and was particularly impressed by the local women’s initiative to replant shea trees in a nearby village, restoring a lost forest. As an advocate for conservation, Dawuni praised their efforts and shared tips on sustainable afforestation practices.
Dawuni also toured the Numbu Shea Butter Factory, which employs over 100 women. The factory’s innovative approach to sustainability was highlighted, as it uses waste products as a charcoal substitute for cooking fuel, helping to protect the environment.
Rocky Dawuni expressed his commitment to promoting tourism in the region and making Wechiau one of the most popular destinations in Africa when it comes to tourism. He ended the event by performing a selection of songs and also joined the women to sing and dance, further solidifying his dedication to supporting the local community and the sanctuary.
This is a new chapter in the growth of Wechiau and will be a key player in both Ghana’s tourism sector and the global conservation effects.
