For decades, the iconic “Akwaaba” portrait has welcomed visitors across Ghana. The famous framed image, which symbolizes Ghanaian hospitality, is widely displayed in homes, hotels, offices, embassies, and public institutions. However, many people who admire the portrait have often wondered who created the artwork that became such a powerful cultural symbol.
The man behind the widely recognized image is Joseph Osae, a Ghanaian creative professional and founder of Ceejay Multimedia. Osae is the photographer and designer responsible for producing the original Akwaaba portrait that later became a national symbol of Ghana’s welcoming spirit.
The famous image features a young Ghanaian woman dressed in traditional kente cloth and adorned with beads, holding a pot and calabash in a gesture that represents warmth and hospitality. Over the years, the portrait has become closely associated with Ghana’s identity and is often used to convey the country’s friendly and welcoming culture.
According to Osae, creating the image was not an easy process. He explained that several attempts were made before the final version was produced. At the time, he faced technical and financial challenges, including the high cost of materials and equipment needed to achieve the desired artistic result. Despite the difficulties, the team continued refining the concept until they captured the perfect shot.
The portrait eventually gained widespread popularity after it was released and distributed as framed artwork. Within a short time, it began appearing in various public spaces across the country and later in international locations, including African airports and diplomatic offices.
The woman featured in the portrait is Angelina Nana Akua Oduro, who became the face associated with the iconic image. The photograph was originally taken in 1999 and has since become one of the most recognizable cultural images connected to Ghana’s tourism and hospitality identity.
Today, the Akwaaba portrait continues to represent Ghana’s welcoming culture and national pride. For Joseph Osae, the artwork stands as one of the most influential creative works associated with Ghanaian visual culture and a lasting symbol of the country’s reputation as the gateway to Africa.
