The GBC Sunrise FM Ladies Association in the Eastern Region, with support from the Eastern Regional Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), the National Association of Beauticians and Hairdressers, and Promasidor Ghana, has organised a food bazaar and cultural demonstration to mark Women’s Month and Ghana Month.
The event centred on the theme of preserving Ghanaian heritage, with a strong focus on local languages, names, customs, and traditional cuisine.
Dignitaries and keynote speakers
The programme brought together a range of stakeholders, including the Eastern Regional Director of the NCCE, Ophelia Nana Yaa Ankrah; lecturers from SDA College of Education, Richel Ofori and Endurance Serwaa; Rev. Martha Annang of the Ghana National Fire Service; and several executives of the GBC Sunrise Ladies Association. Other notable attendees included Joseph Adjei, Eastern Regional Director of GBC Sunrise, and Dr. Gladys Mawufemor, among others.
Call to preserve Ghanaian culture
Opening the event, Ms Ankrah, who also chaired the programme, stressed the importance of safeguarding Ghana’s cultural identity. She urged Ghanaians to invest in their traditions rather than replacing them with foreign influences, noting that preserving local customs is essential to national development.
Fire safety education highlighted
Fire safety education featured prominently, with Leading Fire Woman Agyekum Rosemary of the Ghana National Fire Service cautioning households about the risks of domestic fires, particularly in the kitchen.
She explained that most fire outbreaks result from a combination of fuel, heat, and oxygen, and advised the public to adopt safer practices. These include allowing gas cylinders to settle after refilling, checking for leakages, and avoiding overcrowded kitchen spaces.
She also encouraged the use of fire extinguishers and urged the public to seek professional support when dealing with faulty gas equipment. According to her, many domestic fire incidents can be prevented through basic safety awareness and proper handling of cooking appliances.
Promoting local food and nutrition
A representative from Promasidor Ghana highlighted the role of locally relevant food products in supporting nutrition and enhancing traditional dishes. She noted that products such as Onga seasoning and Yumvita are designed to complement Ghanaian meals while supporting healthy development, particularly among children.
She added that these products meet regulatory standards and are widely accessible, making them a convenient option for households.
Media’s role in cultural preservation
Joseph Adjei, Eastern Regional Director of GBC Sunrise, underscored the importance of local languages and media in preserving Ghanaian culture. He traced the history of radio broadcasting in Ghana and emphasised its role in promoting unity and cultural identity.
He encouraged media practitioners to uphold professionalism and prioritise content that strengthens national cohesion and cultural pride.
Hair care and personal wellbeing
A representative of the National Association of Beauticians and Hairdressers educated participants on proper hair care, highlighting its importance to health, identity, and self-confidence. She advised against excessive styling and poor maintenance habits, encouraging regular care, balanced nutrition, and healthy lifestyles.
Encouraging cultural education at home
Speakers also urged parents to play a more active role in teaching children about Ghanaian culture, particularly local foods and languages. They warned that over-reliance on foreign lifestyles could gradually erode the country’s rich heritage.
Rev. Martha Annang shared personal experiences, noting the challenges of introducing children to local foods later in life, and encouraged parents to instil these values early.
A shared responsibility
The event ended with a strong call for collective action, with participants encouraged to apply the knowledge gained in their daily lives. Organisers emphasised that preserving Ghana’s heritage requires sustained effort from individuals, families, institutions, and the media.
They expressed hope that such initiatives will continue to promote Ghanaian culture and ensure it is passed on to future generations.