The Greater Accra Regional Minister has sparked a debate by suggesting the replacement of “Akwaaba” with “Oobake” at Kotoka International Airport and Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park to protect the Ga language and culture.
However, the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has denied any involvement in altering the signage, stating that any changes would require approval from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture.
The proposal to replace “Akwaaba” (Akan greeting) and “Woezor” (Ewe greeting) with “Oobake” (Ga greeting) has generated public debate.
The authority claims it didn’t order or approve any changes, and both inscriptions remain intact.
The debate highlights Ghana’s diverse cultural heritage and the importance of preserving linguistic identities.
Below is the full statement:
Press Statement by the Greater Accra Regional Minister
I wish to address the ongoing public discourse concerning the proposed substitution of “Akwaaba” with “Oobakɛ” at the Kotoka International Airport and the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
The Ga people, as the custodians of the land on which our capital city stands, have every right to raise legitimate concerns about the preservation and promotion of their language and cultural identity. As Minister, I remain fully committed to ensuring that our cultural heritage, traditions and linguistic legacy are respected, protected and preserved for generations to come.
At the same time, it must be emphasized that Ghana is a nation built on unity in diversity. Our strength lies in the coexistence of various ethnic groups whose values and traditions enrich our national identity. Just as the concerns of the Ga people are important, so too would the voices of the Ashanti, the Ewe and all other ethnic groups be treated with equal seriousness, should they raise legitimate matters in the interest of national harmony.
I was married to an Ewe and my children proudly bear Ewe names. My own family reflects the diversity that makes Ghana unique and I stand firmly against any interpretation that seeks to pit one ethnic group against another.
As someone with close family ties to other ethnic communities, I am firmly against any form of tribalism or division. This government is here to work and serve all the people of Ghana without bias. Decisions concerning matters of culture and heritage must therefore be made with sensitivity, broad consultation and national interest at heart.
In this regard, I assure all stakeholders that government will engage widely, listen attentively and pursue a balanced approach that honors the Ga-Dangme heritage while safeguarding the unity and inclusiveness that define us as Ghanaians.
Let it be clear: the preservation of Ga culture is not in opposition to national cohesion. Rather, it is an integral part of our collective identity. Together, we shall continue to uphold our cultural heritage while promoting unity, peace and development across our beloved nation.
Signed
Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo
Greater Accra Regional Minister
