From the humble streets of Ayalolo to becoming a pioneering force in Ghana’s hospitality industry, Samuel Afari Dartey’s journey embodies resilience, vision, and unwavering determination.
Early Life and Education
Born into poverty in the Ga hamlet of Ayalolo near James Town in Accra, Samuel Afari Dartey’s early years were defined by hardship. In the mid-1980s, his life took a transformative turn when he earned a scholarship to study in Cuba, a testament to his exceptional talent and academic promise.
“From a very poor family living in Arena, Ayalolo, close to James Town, I left Ghana in the mid-80s to Cuba, came back in the mid-90s as a Forest Scientist, a properly trained and disciplined professional,” Dartey recounts.
His academic journey culminated in his return to Ghana in the mid-1990s as a fully qualified Forest Scientist, equipped with specialized knowledge in natural resource economics, wildlife management, climate change, environmental sustainability, wood processing, enterprise development strategies, and eco-tourism.
Professional Career
Samuel Afari Dartey’s professional trajectory spans both public and private sectors, where he has held numerous leadership positions:
- Served as CEO in various organizations
- Held positions as Board Member and Board Chairman across multiple entities
- Applied his expertise in forestry, wildlife management, and environmental sustainability to drive meaningful impact
His global travels exposed him to contrasting environmental realities—pristine natural settings destroyed by human activity, and devastated landscapes transformed into thriving eco-havens. These experiences shaped his business philosophy: “to build a world class environmentally conscious hospitality brand that brings people closer to nature.”
The Safari Group Empire
Since 2015, Dartey has emerged as a frontrunner in Ghana’s hospitality industry, with a focus on eco-friendly tourism ventures:
Aqua Safari Resort
Located in the Volta Region, this pioneering resort established Dartey’s reputation for creating unique, nature-focused hospitality experiences.
Safari Valley Resort
His latest venture, dubbed the “African Disneyland,” represents a $25 million investment in Ghana’s Eastern Region. This breathtaking eco-resort spreads across 500 acres and features:
- Luxury accommodations integrated with natural surroundings
- Spa services and golf facilities
- Organic dining experiences
- Theatre and arts spaces
- Natural features including caves and lakes
- Immersive experiences focused on forest resources, wildlife, and marine environments
The inspiration for Safari Valley came unexpectedly: “A friend of mine invited me to visit his farm and encouraged me to get into the same enterprise,” Dartey explained. “We acquired a few acres and started to develop some rubber plantations but anytime I visited, I thought the place was unique and I knew I had to come up with some idea, an idea that could optimize the use of this beautiful renewable natural resource.”
Economic Impact and Community Empowerment
The Safari Group has become a significant economic force in Ghana:
- Employs over 1,500 Ghanaians directly
- Creates indirect employment for an additional 580 people
- Contributes substantially to Ghana’s tourism, hospitality, and environmental sectors
International Relations
Dartey maintains deep appreciation for the educational opportunities afforded him through Ghana-Cuba relations. His meeting with the Vice President of Cuba symbolizes the culmination of his personal journey and highlights the positive impact of international cooperation.
“The benefits of the relationship between Cuba and Ghana cannot be underestimated. On behalf of all my colleagues, I say thanks to the people of Cuba for this great opportunity,” he has stated.
Legacy and Inspiration
Samuel Afari Dartey’s life story serves as powerful inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. His success demonstrates how education, discipline, vision, and commitment to environmental sustainability can transform not only individual lives but entire communities.
Through his innovative approach to eco-tourism, Dartey continues to bridge the gap between economic development and environmental conservation, creating a business model that celebrates and preserves Ghana’s natural heritage while providing world-class experiences for visitors from around the globe.