The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has dismissed viral allegations on social media suggesting it replaced the culturally significant greetings “Akwaaba” (Akan) and “Woezor” (Ewe) with “Oobakɛ” (Ga) on signage at the newly renovated Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.

In an official statement responding to the controversy, the GTA clarified that it has not authorised or instructed any such replacement.

“At no point has the Ghana Tourism Authority ordered or approved the replacement of the culturally significant greetings ‘Woezor’ (in Ewe) and ‘Akwaba’ (in Akan) with ‘Oobakɛ’. These inscriptions remain preserved and respected as part of Ghana's diverse cultural heritage,” the Authority stated.

GTA Distances Itself from Alleged Changes

According to the GTA, any modifications to signage at the park require prior consultation and approval from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and other relevant agencies. The Authority emphasised that it has no knowledge of any alterations and urged the public to disregard the misinformation circulating online.

How the Controversy Started

The debate began when photos of new signage at the Memorial Park went viral. Some social media users criticised the display of “Akwaaba” and “Woezor” without the inclusion of “Oobakɛ”, which means “Welcome” in Ga, the local language of the Greater Accra Region, where the park is located.

Critics argued that since the park sits on Ga land, the Ga greeting should have been included or highlighted. Others, however, defended the inscriptions, noting that “Akwaaba” is nationally recognised, while expressing concerns over the inclusion of “Woezor” without “Oobakɛ”, calling it culturally insensitive.

The debate intensified after another image surfaced days later, allegedly showing updated signage featuring “Oobakɛ” in place of the original greetings. It remains unclear who made this alteration or whether it had any official approval.

GTA Reaffirms Commitment to Cultural Unity

In its closing remarks, the GTA reassured the public of its dedication to promoting unity and cultural diversity, describing the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park as a “symbol of national pride and unity.”

By: Lucy Mawufemor Kpeglo