In the vibrant tapestry of Ghana’s cultural heritage, a new generation is stepping forward to safeguard its legacy. Kids in Tourism Ghana, an organization dedicated to introducing young Ghanaians to the world of tourism and cultural education, recently met with the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie. The meeting served as a pivotal moment, underscoring the importance of youth involvement in preserving and promoting Ghana’s rich cultural identity. Discussions ranged from the power of storytelling to the significance of heritage sites, setting the stage for a future where young Ghanaians are not just observers, but active participants in the nation’s tourism sector.
The dialogue between Kids in Tourism Ghana and Hon. Gomashie highlighted the critical role of cultural understanding among the youth, which sparked conversations that promise to shape how Ghana’s heritage is perceived and promoted. The young delegation gained invaluable insights into the workings of the Ministry and the importance of their contribution to the tourism sector.
Kids in Tourism Ghana: Nurturing Future Cultural Custodians
Kids in Tourism Ghana envisions a future where young citizens are deeply connected to their cultural roots, understanding the immense value of tourism in showcasing Ghana to the world. By introducing children to tourism and cultural education from a young age, the organization hopes to instill a sense of pride and responsibility for preserving Ghana’s heritage. The meeting with Hon. Dzifa Gomashie was a key step in realizing this vision.
“We came to share our vision with the Hon. Minister and to learn from her remarkable experience,” stated Nana Akua Afriyie Asante, CEO of Kids in Tourism Ghana, emphasizing the reciprocal nature of the engagement. The organization sought to strengthen the children’s understanding of the Ministry’s role in promoting tourism and culture.
Hon. Dzifa Gomashie’s Insights: Storytelling and Cultural Identity
Hon. Dzifa Gomashie passionately emphasized the power of storytelling as a vital tool for cultural preservation. She underscored that experiences, no matter how wonderful, remain limited if they are not shared. “You go through these wonderful experiences, but if you can’t talk about them, how do you share them with the world?” she posed, highlighting the importance of narrative in inspiring others to explore and appreciate Ghana.
The Minister also advised the children to prioritize reading over television, stressing the importance of literacy in building confidence and effectively expressing their heritage. Strong literacy skills, she noted, empower individuals to articulate their cultural identity with conviction and clarity.
Hon. Gomashie illuminated the foundational pillars of Ghanaian identity: storytelling, music, food, fashion, dance, and language. She provided vivid examples of regional food choices, such as kenkey, tuo zaafi, and akple, explaining their cultural significance and how these culinary traditions reflect the diversity within Ghana. Regional dishes, like kenkey in Accra or Tuo Zaafi in the north, offer a taste of local identity, with Hon. Gomashie emphasizing food as a symbol of cultural pride. These elements, she explained, are the bedrock upon which Ghanaian culture is built, each contributing to a rich and dynamic national identity.
Cultural Awareness Beyond Customs
Hon. Gomashie reminded the young ambassadors that cultural awareness extends beyond traditional customs and ceremonies. It encompasses the everyday aspects of life, including how we speak, dress, and interact with one another. She urged them to share these elements proudly, recognizing that these daily expressions are integral to Ghana’s cultural fabric. The way Ghanaians conduct themselves in daily life is a testament to their cultural heritage. Embracing these everyday expressions of culture is crucial for preserving and promoting Ghanaian identity.
The discussion also touched on key heritage sites, with the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park receiving particular attention. The Minister described the park as a vital location for learning about Ghana’s history and legacy, encouraging the children to explore its significance as a symbol of national pride.
The Reach of Kids in Tourism: Ambassadors Across Ghana
Kids in Tourism Ghana’s influence extends across more than 70 basic schools in the Greater Accra, Central, and Ashanti Regions. The organization’s efforts encourage students to explore Ghana’s cultural landmarks and traditions, fostering pride in their heritage and nurturing them to become future cultural custodians. These young ambassadors are actively engaged in discovering and sharing the treasures of their country.
The meeting between Kids in Tourism Ghana and Hon. Dzifa Gomashie illuminated the path towards a future where young Ghanaians are at the forefront of cultural preservation and tourism promotion. Hon. Gomashie’s insights on storytelling, cultural identity, and the importance of everyday cultural expressions resonated deeply, inspiring the children to embrace their roles as cultural ambassadors. The continued efforts of Kids in Tourism Ghana promise to shape the future of Ghanaian tourism, ensuring that the nation’s rich heritage is cherished and celebrated for generations to come. The organization seeks to foster a sense of ownership and pride in Ghana’s cultural treasures, making Kids in Tourism Ghana a vital player in the country’s tourism sector.
Image Source: MYJOYONLINE
