Actress and filmmaker Lydia Forson is wondering why Ghanaians are increasingly replacing local names and expressions with terms associated with other countries, warning that the trend could gradually weaken the country’s cultural identity.
Forson pointed to everyday examples, including bofrot being referred to as “puff puff” and ntoma being called “Ankara”.
She said these changes might appear insignificant, but could contribute to a broader loss of Ghanaian cultural identity, particularly at a time when efforts are already being made to preserve local languages and traditions.
“You might think it’s a small thing, but it doesn’t stop with food. We’re even calling ntoma Ankara now. But that’s how we slowly erase who we are,” she said.
Forson stressed that her concern was not about rejecting other cultures or preventing cultural exchange.
“I know language and culture evolve, and I also have no issues with other cultures. In fact, I love and appreciate them. What would there be to appreciate if they were the same as us?” she said.
Her concern, she explained, is why Ghanaians appear more willing to promote foreign cultural expressions than their own.
“Why are we so quick to set aside what is ours? Why don’t we appreciate our own?” she asked, pointing to areas including music, food and drinks.
Forson also questioned the role of Ghanaian leaders in promoting local culture, saying some leaders encourage citizens to support Ghanaian products and culture while adopting foreign expressions themselves.
“What makes it more frustrating is that even some of our leaders do this, then turn around and tell us to be proud of Ghana, support Ghana and promote Ghana,” she said.
She linked the issue to her work with Kinky Matters and the Kinky Experience, saying her efforts are driven partly by a desire to preserve aspects of Ghanaian identity while still embracing the wider world.
“This is a huge part of why Kinky Matters is more than products for me, and it’s why I started the Kinky Experience,” Forson said.
She added that Ghanaians could appreciate other cultures without abandoning their own.
“We can appreciate others and hold on to ours,” she said.