The Executive Director of the National Theatre of Ghana, Amy Appiah Frimpong, has raised concerns about the diminishing value of Ghana’s creative arts and culture due to the effects of globalisation.
Speaking at the Citi Business Festival, Mrs. Frimpong highlighted the erosion of Ghanaian cultural practices, noting instances where traditional attire at festivals is increasingly being replaced by Western-style clothing, such as jeans.
Mrs. Frimpong stressed the significance of preserving Ghana’s arts and culture, which are integral to the nation’s identity. She called for a balance between embracing globalisation and protecting Ghana’s cultural heritage, urging a renewed appreciation and valuation of the country’s arts and culture.
“Over the years, I think that the value of our Arts and Culture has diminished and you can tell even when you attend festivals. Sometimes I go to festivals and I cringe because the people that surround the chief are for instance wearing jeans and I’m like this will never happen or the recent one with the GUCCI kente, I mean how can this happen.”
“I know we are at the point where globalisation is affecting us but we do need to keep who we are because our arts and culture define us as Ghanaians. It’s that thing that when you go somewhere, for instance outside the country, it will define you.
“I think that going forward, we need to figure out how to value our arts and culture with the global sector so that there’s appreciation for who we are as a people and at the same time keep an eye on whatever is happening around us.”