Kwahu Nkwatia Benkumhene calls for stronger embrace of cultural diversity
Kwahu Nkwatia Benkumhene, Nana Afum Dwamena III, has called on Ghanaians to embrace cultural diversity as a vital tool for preserving the nation’s heritage and shaping the mindset of the younger generation.
He said a deeper appreciation of Ghana’s diverse traditions would help the youth better understand their identity and ensure the sustainability of cultural values passed down through generations.
According to him, culture remains a strong foundation for unity and national development.
Nana Afum Dwamena III made the call in an interview at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on Sunday, February 1, 2026, during activities marking the first Akwasidae festival for the 2026 year.
The event drew traditional authorities from across the country, government officials, members of the clergy, and members of the general public, creating a setting that reflected Ghana’s rich cultural and social diversity.
The Kwahu Nkwatia Benkumhene noted that traditional festivals such as Akwasidae offer an important platform for educating the youth about customs, history, and moral values that have guided society for centuries.
Speaking to the media after exchanging pleasantries with the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Nana Afum Dwamena III said these gatherings should be used deliberately to instill pride in cultural heritage among young people.
He emphasized that the youth have a critical role to play in promoting and preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage, describing them as the custodians of traditions that must be protected for future generations.
Nana Afum Dwamena III encouraged young people to actively participate in cultural activities rather than distancing themselves from tradition in favour of foreign influences, which he said could weaken national identity.
He further appealed to parents, community leaders, and institutions to support cultural education by teaching local languages, customs, and traditional practices at home and in schools, stressing that such efforts would help bridge the gap between older generations and the youth.
Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Francis Appiah
