Nana Kwame Boadu I, the Kitasi-Paduase Apagyahene, has urged the youth to embrace and preserve their cultural heritage, warning that the growing influence of foreign cultures could threaten the country’s identity if traditional values are neglected.
He said Ghana’s cultural heritage remains fundamental to national unity, socio-economic development and the preservation of the values that define its people.
Nana Kwame Boadu made the call during the elevation and enstoolment of Nana Kwame Agyei Sika-Pa, formerly the Kitasi Mmrantehene, as the Guantoahene of Kitasi-Akuapem.
Nana Kwame Boadu I, Kitasi-Paduase Apagyahene
He stressed that culture should not be regarded merely as a collection of historical customs but as an essential part of the country’s identity and a foundation for building a united and progressive society.
According to him, young people must take a greater interest in indigenous traditions and customs instead of abandoning them in favour of foreign cultural influences.
He maintained that preserving Ghanaian heritage would help future generations understand their history, appreciate their identity and uphold the values passed down by their ancestors.
The Kitasi-Paduase Apagyahene also criticised perceptions that equate African cultural practices with idol worship, arguing that such beliefs could discourage young people from embracing their heritage.
He urged the youth to develop a deeper understanding of their cultural traditions rather than dismissing them based on religious interpretations.
Nana Kwame Agyei Sika-Pa, newly installed Guantoahene of Kitasi-Akuapem.
“My advice to the youth is that if someone tells you that cultural heritage or tradition is idol worship, that person does not know or read the Bible well,” he said.
To support his argument, Nana Kwame Boadu referred to the biblical account of the prophet Samuel anointing David as king of Israel, using it to challenge the notion that religious faith must necessarily conflict with cultural identity.
He cautioned against the wholesale rejection of Ghanaian traditions without an appreciation of their historical and cultural significance.
The traditional leader further appealed to pastors, church leaders and other religious authorities to refrain from discouraging their congregations from appreciating Ghanaian cultural heritage.
He urged religious leaders to promote a balanced understanding of indigenous traditions and recognise the importance of protecting the country’s cultural identity.
Nana Kwame Boadu also called on traditional authorities to involve young people more actively in customary activities, cultural ceremonies and community engagements.
He said such participation would help transfer indigenous knowledge and values to younger generations while strengthening their connection to their communities.
Meanwhile, Nana Ama Ntowbea, the Mmabeahemaa of Kitasi-Akuapem, has cautioned young people against indecent dressing and inappropriate conduct ahead of the Kitase Odwira Festival, scheduled for this weekend.
Nana Ama Ntowbea, Mmabeahemaa, Kitasi-Akuapem
She urged the youth, particularly young women, to dress decently and conduct themselves in accordance with the customs and values of the traditional area.
Although acknowledging that the festival provides an opportunity for celebration, cultural expression and community bonding, Nana Ama Ntowbea stressed that participants must respect the traditions governing the occasion.
She warned that traditional authorities would not tolerate indecent dressing or other forms of misconduct during the festivities.
Her remarks highlights the importance of maintaining discipline and respecting customary expectations as residents and visitors prepare to participate in the annual celebration.
The Odwira festival is an important cultural occasion among communities that observe it, offering an opportunity to preserve traditional practices, strengthen communal ties and reinforce a shared sense of identity.
Some young people who attended the enstoolment ceremony welcomed the elevation of Nana Kwame Agyei Sika-Pa as the Guantoahene of Kitasi-Akuapem.
They expressed hope that his installation would promote unity, cooperation and development within the traditional area.
They also expressed optimism that his leadership would strengthen relationships among community members and encourage greater youth participation in traditional governance and cultural activities.
The ceremony brought renewed attention to the role of traditional institutions in preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage and ensuring that indigenous customs and values remain relevant to younger generations.
The calls by Nana Kwame Boadu and Nana Ama Ntowbea underscore the importance of cultural education, responsible conduct and active youth participation in safeguarding Ghanaian traditions.
They also highlight the need for traditional authorities, religious leaders, parents and young people to work together to preserve the country’s cultural identity for future generations.
By 1960news.com
