December in GH shouldn’t just be about partying, let’s promote Ghana’s culture —NCC
With activities already heralding the Yuletide, Acting Deputy Executive Director of the National Commission on Culture (NCC), Dr Richardson Commey Fio, is urging event organisers and revellers to uphold Ghanaian cultural values during the upcoming December in GH festivities.
December in GH is the country’s biggest celebration made up of cultural, entertainment, adventure, nightlife, fashion, gastronomy, tours and community service making Ghana the go-to hotspot to experience the festive season.
Speaking with Graphic Showbiz in a recent interview, Dr Commey Fio expressed concern over the increasing influence of modern trends, technology and social media on the December in GH, warning that failure to exercise discretion could dilute the traditional and cultural essence of the festivities. (Read Kuami Eugene paid me GHc400 monthly, former house help Mary claims)
Despite acknowledging the impact of global cultural interactions, he stressed the importance of preventing these trends from overshadowing the commitment to preserving Ghanaian traditions.
“The incorporation of modern elements into traditional celebrations has been overwhelming over the years due to technology and influences of other cultures. That notwithstanding, the Commission is aware that Ghana cannot live in isolation and just as culture evolves, there are definitely some new introductions and transformations that could happen as a result of our interactions with other cultures.
“The Commission is very mindful of what we adopt and incorporate into our traditions so we do not dilute them beyond recognition. We are very much concerned about activities that influence young people to dress indecently, be involved in excessive drinking of alcohol and drugs, and engage in sexual promiscuity,” he said.
Dr Commey Fio revealed that the Commission planned to embark on a capacity-building programme for emerging artistes nationwide next month and had already secured funding under the UNESCO-Aschberg programme for artistes and cultural professionals to set the project rolling.