Accra to London, a 10,000-kilometer odyssey, has become an indelible mark on Ghana’s history as the intrepid Wanderlust team achieved the remarkable feat of embarking on the nation’s inaugural cross-continental journey.
The team, comprising 12 participants Richard Anim, Kwadwo Saka, Kwame Peprah, Kofi Peprah, Kwadwo Prakah-Asante, Franklin Peters and his son Quincy, Joseph, Cyprian Ed, Kwabena Ayirebi and his brother Kojo and one female driver, Nana Afua Serwaa, also known as “Shecanic” were fueled by their tagline, “Dream it, Believe it, Do it, Drive for digitalization to embark on the trip.
On Saturday, August 5, 2023, the team ignited a fervent debate over the fate of the cars that accompanied them on this monumental expedition.
In a thought-provoking social media post, the Wanderlust team opened up to their supporters, stating, “We got some suggestions to auction the cars in London to support the cause. Others say we should bring the cars back home so y’all can have a feel of them. Should we auction in London or we should ship them back home, and auction them later? We need to know what you think. Like for ‘Auction in London,’ comment for ‘Ship to Ghana.’ Other suggestions are welcome.”
Their innocuous query sparked a passionate discourse among Ghanaians on social media platforms under the hashtags #AccratoLondon and #ShiptoGhana, showcasing the profound impact of the Wanderlust team’s journey on the nation’s collective consciousness.
Among the voices contributing to this fervour is former Ghanaian broadcaster and entrepreneur, Kojo Akoto Boateng.
In a compelling perspective, Boateng proposed that the cars be brought back to Ghana and taken on an inspirational road trip across the country.
He wrote, “Ship to Ghana. Let’s take them on a crazy road trip round the country. Let the children around Ghana know it’s possible and let’s auction to support the cause. If we don’t get good value for the auction, let’s crowdfund to buy them for the National Museum with the picture of the brave and crazy team embossed on them. My two Pesewas.”
The Wanderlust team’s adventure culminated in a triumphant arrival in London on Sunday, August 6, where they were met with a jubilant welcome in the heart of the British capital.
Reflecting on their incredible journey, Kwabena Ayirebi, 50, the convener of the group shared their exhilaration during an interview in Calais, France.
“It’s been a fantastic experience, a journey that started about 3 years ago… COVID did not allow it to come to pass, but thank God that things have calmed down, and we’ve been able to undertake this epic journey so far,” Kwabena Ayirebi told TV3
Beyond the awe-inspiring voyage, the Wanderlust team’s mission encompasses a profound charitable endeavour.
Operating under the banner of “Drive for Digitalization,” they aim to raise $100,000 in partnership with Edu Sports. This initiative focuses on establishing community-led libraries equipped with digital resources, particularly tablets, for children in local areas.
The overarching vision is to bridge the digital divide and empower Ghana’s youth to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
“We also have a wider strategic plan under the auspices of Mr Ricahrd Anim to would raise a catalyst fund of 1 million dollars that would equip primary schools in local areas with digital centres to help them enter the digital world as the world moves into an AI age,” Kwabena revealed.
Inspired by tales of travellers journeying to Ghana and other African nations, the Wanderlust team revealed that they embarked on their extraordinary expedition as a fun adventure to explore countries on the continent .
While challenges and encounters with diverse cultures have punctuated their path, their unyielding determination and courage have captivated the imagination of many.
“It’s been a long drive crossing borders has been difficult in the African countries but we made it through, driving through the Sahara desert was very difficult but we made it to Spain,” Franklin Peters who drove with his son on the trip shared.
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As they contemplate the fate of their trusty vehicles, one thing is certain; the Wanderlust team’s odyssey has redefined the boundaries of possibility and showcased the power of the human spirit, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s narrative and beyond.
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