The Tufuhene of Adweso-Akuapem, Nana Bekoe Dankwa, has made a passionate appeal to traditional authorities and stakeholders within the Akuapem Traditional Area to use this year’s historic Odwira Festival as a platform to revitalize and promote the Akuapem language.
Nana Bekoe Dankwa, who doubles as the Founder of Okuapeman Global fears that the envious Akuapem language is gradually losing its relevance among the younger generation, hence the urgent call.
According to the respected traditional ruler, the widespread influence of globalization, foreign cultures, and changing social dynamics has significantly contributed to the declining use of the Akuapem dialect in homes, schools, communities, and public discourse.
He warned that without deliberate and coordinated efforts to preserve the language, an important aspect of the Akuapem people’s cultural heritage could be lost forever.
Nana Bekoe Dankwa made the remarks during a special engagement at Parliament House hosted by the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Okere, Hon. Daniel Nana Addo Kenneth.
During the meeting, he commended the legislator for his commitment to development and public service, both in his previous role as District Chief Executive (DCE) and now as a Member of Parliament.
While applauding the MP’s achievements, the traditional leader used the opportunity to draw attention to what he described as the inadequate attention given to the preservation and promotion of the Akuapem language over the years.
He expressed concern that the language, once widely spoken and celebrated across the Akuapem landscape, is increasingly being sidelined, particularly among younger generations who are embracing foreign linguistic influences.
“The Akuapem language is not merely a means of communication; it is a symbol of our identity, history, values, and collective heritage. If we fail to take conscious steps to preserve it today, future generations may lose a vital connection to their roots,” he said.
He acknowledged that language evolution and change are natural phenomena influenced by social and global developments. However, he stressed that the current situation demands intentional intervention. According to him, strategic measures aimed at encouraging the speaking, teaching, and public use of the Akuapem dialect could help reverse the trend and ensure its survival.
As part of his recommendations, Nana Bekoe Dankwa called on radio stations across Ghana that broadcast in Twi to intentionally incorporate the Akuapem dialect into their programming.
He believes such an initiative would not only enrich linguistic diversity on the airwaves, but also expose a broader audience to the dialect and encourage its use among native speakers.
The traditional leader further urged organizers of this year’s Odwira Festival, which coincides with the celebration of the festival’s bicentennial anniversary, to move beyond the ceremonial aspects of the event and focus on issues of cultural and societal significance.
He noted that the festival presents a unique opportunity to champion the preservation of Akuapem traditions, customs, and language while fostering stronger bonds between generations.
Nana Bekoe Dankwa emphasized the need to bridge the widening gap between the elderly and the youth, arguing that the wisdom, experience, and historical knowledge possessed by older generations remain invaluable assets for the development of Akuapem communities.
“The elderly are the custodians of our history and traditions. They serve as our institutional memory,” he stated adding “the youth must engage with them, learn from their experiences, and carry forward the enduring legacy of Akuapem for generations yet unborn.”
He, therefore, called on traditional leaders, educators, cultural organizations, media practitioners, and policymakers to collaborate in developing practical initiatives that will preserve the Akuapem language and strengthen cultural identity within the traditional area.
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