Highlife musician and cultural advocate Akosua Agyapong has urged for tranquillity in light of the tensions arising from the requests made by certain Ga-Dangme indigenes to substitute the “Akwaaba” signage at Kotoka International Airport with “Obaake,” which is the Ga term for welcome.
The group contends that, given the airport is situated on Ga land, the signage ought to represent Ga culture. However, their requests have led to intense discussions, raising alarms regarding tribal sentiments.
In response to this situation, Akosua Agyapong characterized the unrest as unwarranted, stressing that “Akwaaba” has evolved into a national emblem of hospitality. She pointed out that the phrase transcends ethnic boundaries and is widely accepted throughout Ghana.
“Akwaaba is akin to how we utilize Adowa to greet dignitaries, even beyond the Ashanti Region. If we argue that Akwaaba should be eliminated because it is Akan, then by the same reasoning, we should refrain from performing Adowa to honor guests,” she remarked.
While recognizing the significance of safeguarding Ga heritage, Akosua Agyapong proposed that a distinct monument could be established to highlight Ga cultural aspects, rather than eliminating a well-established national symbol.
She warned against actions that might heighten tribal divisions, encouraging stakeholders to prioritize unity over discord.
