The Reverend Dr. Solomon Bruce, Superintendent Minister and Synod Secretary of the Sunyani Methodist Diocese, has urged parents to instill Ghanaian cultural and traditional values in their children. Speaking at a special service in Sunyani themed “Our Culture, Our Value,” Dr. Bruce highlighted the critical role culture plays in defining national identity and emphasized the importance of passing down these values to younger generations.
Dr. Bruce expressed concern about the gradual erosion of Ghanaian cultural practices, noting that fewer young people and even some adults engage in traditional customs, such as wearing indigenous attire, performing traditional dances, or preparing and enjoying local foods. He attributed this shift to the pervasive influence of Western culture, which he fears is increasingly supplanting Ghana’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.
During his sermon, Dr. Bruce encouraged the youth to take pride in their Ghanaian identity, cautioning them against uncritically adopting foreign cultural norms. “Every society has its own cultural practices that are integral to its identity and welfare,” he stated, underscoring the benefits inherent in preserving Ghana’s traditions. He further noted, “Our cultural heritage, passed down through generations, is deeply rooted in our national identity. Western influences are slowly diluting our unique traditions, which is a cause for concern.”
Dr. Bruce stressed the need for Ghanaians to actively preserve traditional practices, including indigenous clothing, music, language, and cuisine, to ensure these elements remain an integral part of the national identity. “It’s essential to protect and cherish our cultural practices,” he said, “because our culture and traditions shape who we are as a people.”
Former Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Mr. Kwadwo Agyei-Darko, also attended the celebration, expressing his appreciation for the diocese’s efforts in organizing the event to spotlight the relevance of Ghanaian culture and tradition in modern society. He praised the initiative as a valuable reminder to uphold and celebrate Ghana’s rich cultural legacy, particularly amid global influences that often lead people to abandon their roots.
Through the event, the Sunyani Methodist Diocese aimed to emphasize the enduring relevance of Ghanaian culture and traditions, encouraging all Ghanaians to celebrate, honor, and sustain these values within contemporary society.