The Greater Accra Regional Minister has assured Ghanaians that government will consult widely before making any decision on the proposal to replace the word “Akwaaba” with “Oobakɛ” at the Kotoka International Airport and the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo said the concerns raised by the Ga community, who are indigenous to the capital, are legitimate and will be treated with respect. She emphasized that preserving Ga heritage is important but stressed that unity among all ethnic groups remains paramount.
“The Ga people, as custodians of the land on which our capital city stands, have every right to raise concerns about the preservation of their language and culture,” she said. “At the same time, Ghana’s strength lies in its diversity and the peaceful coexistence of all ethnic groups.”
Ocloo dismissed any interpretation that pits one ethnic group against another. She revealed that her own family reflects Ghana’s diversity, as she was married to an Ewe and her children bear Ewe names.
“This government will work for all Ghanaians without bias,” she said. “Decisions on matters of culture and heritage will be made with sensitivity, broad consultation and in the national interest.”
The Minister assured stakeholders that the government will adopt a balanced approach that honors Ga-Dangme heritage while safeguarding national unity.
