The Nalerigu Defence Wall is one of the most well-known slave monuments in Ghana’s northern region. The historic wall, formerly known as the Naa Jaringa Wall, may be found in Nalerigu, in the East Mamprusi District in the North East region.
The wall, which encompassed the entire hamlet of Nalerigu and protected the people from the ruthless slave traders from Burkina Faso and Mali, was built in the 16th century by the then monarch of the Mamprusi ethnic group, Naa Jaringa.
The settlement of Nalerigu was located in the middle of the slave trade route between Djenne, Mali, and Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, according to historical data. As a result, traders crossing between the two areas captured and sold some of Naa Jaringa’s subjects as slaves. To put a stop to this and protect his people, Naa Jaringa put up the famous wall around the village to shield and protect his people from traders crossing from the two areas.
According to oral legend, Naa Jaringa was a very ambitious guy who wished to be remembered forever in the history of the Mamprusis. He envisaged the construction of the wall as a monument that would maintain his name in people’s minds long after his death.
Today, only a small piece of the mud-built wall survives, as erosion has eaten away nearly the whole structure, leaving only a small portion intact. Regardless, the Nalerigu Defence Wall is a monumental edifice in Ghana’s slave and colonial past, and it continues to attract tourists, particularly those from the Americas and Europe who want to experience firsthand some of the slave trafficking industry’s ancient structures.
Ghana Travel Restrictions
Ghana is open to most travelers again. I mean travelers from all over the world. However, you do need proof of your COVID-19 vaccination(s) or a negative test result before being allowed entry.
Many hotels, attractions, and private tours are open with new health & safety protocols in place, and you still have to follow certain guidelines. They are all good for our safety.
Read the ultimate travel guide to Ghana to help you plan