African Rhythms and Memories from Ghana

Hi, this is Eyad, before I finish, there's one more part I forgot to share....

While our research mission in Ghana was intensive and rewarding, some of the most memorable moments happened outside the survey hours .

We welcomed the first sunrise of the year on the beautiful beaches of Keta  a calm, golden morning with the ocean stretching endlessly in front of us. It was the kind of moment that makes you pause, breathe, and feel grateful to be exactly where you are.

Another highlight was visiting a local market , full of color, energy, and life. We explored stalls selling beautiful cloth textiles and handmade leather bags, each piece carrying its own story. During our walk, we stumbled upon a small shop selling local musical instruments . Of course, we couldn't resist trying them. Risako and I played around with the instruments, and to my own surprise, I discovered a hidden talent—I can play the drums quite well 😄. I immediately suggested to Risako that we should start a band, especially since she also plays the guitar. Who knows—maybe next field mission, first lab concert?

During long survey days under the hot coastal sun, we developed a simple but perfect routine:  fresh coconut breaks . Cold coconut water in that weather was unbeatable—refreshing, energizing, and absolutely necessary.

As for food in Ghana, I must confess: I ate a lot of fried rice —and I enjoyed every plate 😄. One thing I quickly learned is that food in Ghana takes time to be served, but honestly, it's part of the experience. Good things are waiting worth for.

One unexpected and comforting moment came when we found a Japanese restaurant in Accra . On the first day of the new year, we enjoyed a nice dinner with familiar Japanese dishes. That evening, I felt both happy and full —a small but meaningful reminder of Japan, even while far away.

On our final day in Accra, we had the chance to attend a  live music show  . The African music was vibrant and powerful—one of those sounds that makes it impossible to sit still. And yes, we danced. My dancing skills were… questionable, but the fun level was very high, and that's what mattered.

These moments—sunrises, music, food, laughter, and shared experiences—made the Ghana mission unforgettable. Beyond the data and surveys, they reminded us that fieldwork is not only about research, but also about connection, discovery, and joy .