Labadi Beach

Planning an informal member social at Labadi Beach

Labadi sits on the eastern side of central Accra, along the coast near La, and it draws large crowds at weekends and on public holidays. That popularity is part of its appeal for a relaxed gathering, but it also means a little planning goes a long way. Logistics professionals will recognise the basics: know your route, your timings and your contingencies before anyone arrives.

Getting there and back

Traffic in Accra can be slow, particularly on the roads towards La and the coastal stretch in the late afternoon and on Friday evenings. If a group is coming straight from offices in Airport, Osu or the Ridge area, agree a realistic start time and suggest that people share rides or use ride-hailing apps rather than each driving separately. Parking near the beachfront can fill up quickly on busy days, so a single meeting point at the entrance makes it easier to gather everyone.

Practical points for organisers

• Check access arrangements in advance. Entry terms and charges at beach areas can change, so confirm current details locally before announcing the event.
• Choose your spot early. Beachfront bars and seating areas get crowded, especially when there is live music or drumming.
• Plan for the sun and the sea. Bring water, shade and sun protection. The Atlantic surf along this coast can be strong, so swimming should be approached with caution and never alone.
• Keep valuables to a minimum. As at any busy public place, phones and wallets are best kept secure.
• Set a clear finish time. Ending before it gets too late makes the journey home simpler for everyone.

Making the networking count

An informal setting works best when there is a light structure underneath it. A short welcome, a quick round of introductions for newer members, and a nudge to connect people working in similar areas, such as freight forwarding, warehousing or procurement, help conversations start naturally. Organisers often find it useful to follow up afterwards with details of upcoming events and training opportunities, so that a relaxed afternoon by the sea leads on to continued professional development.

If you are new to the community and would like to join future gatherings, the membership page explains how to get involved.