From Jamaica to Ghana: Trevor Beckford’s journey of cultural exchange and environmental stewardship

Story: Lydia BOATENGM, Accra

Trevor Lloyd Beckford, a passionate humanitarian, environmentalist, and accomplished herbalist, has shared insights into his lifelong connection to nature, his expertise in herbal medicine, and his commitment to sustainable cultural practices. Speaking on “I Have a Story to Tell,” on Zed 101.9fm in Beckford described his early exposure to nature and how he learned the medicinal uses of herbs, a skill that has made him an accomplished herbalist today.

Beckford explained that herbal knowledge is deeply embedded in Caribbean culture, particularly in Jamaica, where many people view herbs as an essential part of healing. “As a Jamaican now settled in Ghana, I feel privileged to have inherited this knowledge from my grandparents. I later pursued formal studies in herbal medicine to deepen my understanding,” he shared. Beckford fondly recalled his time in the mountains of Accompong, where the women hold ancestral herbal wisdom and know formulas for treating various ailments. “I used to watch and learn from them,” he said.

Accompong, a historical Maroon village in the hills of St. Elizabeth Parish, Jamaica, has a unique heritage, with its name derived from the Akan name “Acheampong.” The community’s strong herbal tradition is part of its cultural legacy, one that Beckford proudly embodies and shares.

Beyond herbalism, Beckford has expressed a keen interest in establishing an economic zone in Ghana to add value to local produce and create jobs. He envisions a facility where meat and other products can be processed, benefiting those who might struggle to afford protein sources like chicken. He is also setting up a poultry farm in Ghana’s Eastern Region and aims to produce organic rice and cereals, advocating for a holistic approach to sustainable agriculture. “I want to inspire the youth to get excited about agriculture and help push Africa to its rightful place in the global arena,” he stated.

As a member of the diaspora, Beckford shared his positive experiences living in Ghana, a place he now considers home. “Ghana is one of the best places to live and raise a family,” he remarked, adding that he feels safe and welcomed. He encouraged Ghanaians to be open to learning from visitors, fostering mutual growth and knowledge exchange. Beckford’s dedication to both his Jamaican roots and his adopted Ghanaian home exemplifies a vision for cultural unity, sustainable growth, and a shared future enriched by heritage and innovation.