By: Lucy Mawufemor Kpeglo
The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has denied allegations circulating on social media that it ordered the replacement of the culturally significant greetings “Akwaaba” (Akan) and “Woezor” (Ewe) with “Oobakɛ” (Ga) on signage at the newly refurbished Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
The Authority issued an official statement in response to a viral Instagram post and public backlash, clarifying that it did not approve or instruct any such change to the inscriptions on the Park’s signage.
“At no point has the Ghana Tourism Authority ordered or approved the replacement of the culturally significant greetings
“Woezor” (in Ewe) and “Akwaba” (in Akan) with “Oobake”. These inscriptions remain preserved and respected as part of Ghana’s diverse cultural heritage”, GTA stated.
According to the statement, any changes to signage at the Park would require prior consultation and approval from both the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and the relevant agencies. The GTA stressed that it has no knowledge of any alterations and urged the public to disregard the circulating misinformation.
The controversy began after photos of a new signage at the Park went viral. Some social media users expressed dissatisfaction over the use of “Akwaaba” and “Woezor” without the inclusion of “Oobakɛ,” which means “Welcome” in Ga, the local language of the Greater Accra Region where the park is located.
Critics argued that since the Park is situated on Ga land, the Ga greeting should have been included or given prominence. Others defended the existing greetings, stating that “Akwaaba” is nationally recognized, but raised concerns about the inclusion of “Woezor” without “Oobakɛ,” calling it culturally insensitive.
Amid the ongoing online debate, another image surfaced days later showing an updated version of the signage, this time featuring “Oobakɛ” in place of the earlier greetings. It remains unclear who made the change or whether it was officially sanctioned.
The GTA concluded its statement by reaffirming its commitment to promoting national unity and cultural diversity, urging Ghanaians to continue supporting the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park as a “symbol of national pride and unity.”
