The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has called on Ghanaians to embrace and promote the country’s diverse local languages, describing them as an important cultural asset and a valuable resource for tourism development.
She said Ghana’s linguistic diversity reflects the country’s rich cultural identity and presents an opportunity to showcase its heritage to both local and international visitors.
Speaking on Starr FM’s Morning Star programme on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, the Minister stressed that accepting and promoting the country’s different languages was an important way of appreciating its cultural diversity.
She noted that Ghana’s languages should not be viewed simply as means of communication but as part of the country’s history, identity and traditions.
Languages can strengthen tourism
According to Gomashie, promoting local languages alongside traditional food, fashion and music can help visitors gain a deeper understanding of Ghanaian communities.
She encouraged Ghanaians to learn about the cultural practices of different areas, including their languages, foods, clothing and music.
The Minister referenced popular Ghanaian foods such as waakye, akple and fufu, explaining that food is closely connected to the cultural identity of communities.
She believes the same appreciation should be extended to the languages and other cultural expressions that make each community unique.
Preserving Ghana’s cultural identity
Gomashie emphasised that Ghana’s cultural diversity should be celebrated and actively promoted rather than overlooked.
She said greater recognition of local languages could deepen cultural exchange, strengthen national identity and create opportunities for tourism promotion.
The Minister’s comments also highlight the importance of passing indigenous languages on to younger generations so that they remain relevant in everyday life.
A shared responsibility
Promoting Ghanaian languages requires the involvement of families, schools, cultural institutions, traditional authorities, the media and the wider public.
Parents can encourage children to speak their mother tongues at home, while schools and cultural organisations can create opportunities for young people to learn about the languages and traditions of other communities.
Gomashie’s appeal is for Ghanaians to recognise the value of their linguistic heritage and use it as part of the country’s broader cultural and tourism development efforts.
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