Madam Linda Akweley Ocloo, Member of Parliament for Shai-Osudoku Constituency, has called on the Chiefs and people of Dodawa to continue preserving their cultural heritage as an embodiment of truth, values and tradition.
She said the continuous preservation of their artefacts, values, history, aesthetic, diverse cultural relations and characteristics and social significance was a preservation of their lives.
The MP said this at the grand durbar of the Chiefs and people of Dodowa for their Ngmayem festival graced by special guests like Nana Konadu Yiadom Kumadin IV, Representative of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who also was the Chairman for the occasion and Obrempong Hima Bekyi XIV, Paramount Chief of Upper Dixcove Traditional Area in the Western.
Reading a speech on behalf of the MP, Mr Dennis Adjannor Nartry, Communication Officer, Shai-Osudoku Constituency of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), said, it was important the citizens continued to uphold the cultural heritage in the pursuit of development.
He said: “Our cultural heritage is a treasure of truth and tradition, values and knowledge. It defines who we are and shapes our identity. In this era of modernisation, it is crucial that we do not lose sight of the individual wealth that our culture heritage present to us.”
Mr Nartey said cultural heritages were a repository of wisdom that addressed contemporary challenges in sustainable ways while shaping the future of the youth and society.
“Cultural heritage is a powerful tool for fostering social cohesion and inclusivity. It breaks barriers of language, religion and ethnicity by promoting unity and understanding among diverse communities. This unity is a cornerstone of our successful development endeavour,” he said
The Constituency Communication Officer also said cultural identity stimulated creativity and innovation, provided a rich source of inspiration for the film industry, writers and entrepreneurs to drive Ghana’s economic and social development.
He however, said upholding their cultural heritage for development did not mean clinging to the path of resisting change, rather, finding a balance between tradition and progress.
“We can adopt and modernise our cultural practices while preserving their essence. Such a dynamic approach allows for the preservation of tradition whiles embracing the opportunities of the future,” he added.
Mr Nartey presented a cash donation of GHS 2, 000 and some assorted drinks to the organisers of the festival.
GNA
