The Ga language, a vital part of Ghanaian culture, is facing a decline in usage among younger generations. Sylvester Adinam Mensah, CEO of Ghana EXIM Bank, has expressed concern over the trend, stating that many children understand the language but hesitate to speak it, while some cannot speak it at all. He made these remarks as the Special Guest of Honour at the 10th anniversary celebration of Latenu Radio in La on Saturday, September 26, 2026.
Mr. Mensah emphasized the importance of language in shaping a people's knowledge, identity, and sense of belonging. He noted that language is not just a means of communication but also a way of seeing the world. According to him, a people who lose their language slowly lose their memory, and a people without memory can easily lose their way. He praised Latenu Radio for using Ga in its news, music, and discussions over the past decade.
The Ga language is an essential part of Ghanaian heritage, particularly in the Ga traditional area. The increasingly cosmopolitan nature of Accra has made it even more crucial for families and community institutions to pass the language on to younger generations. Mr. Mensah urged Latenu Radio to sustain its efforts in promoting the Ga language and develop programmes to help people who have lost the ability to speak Ga to learn or reconnect with it.
Latenu Radio marked its 10th anniversary with a ceremony where it presented awards to individuals recognized for their contributions to communities in La and the wider Ga traditional area. The station's efforts in promoting the Ga language and culture were commended by Mr. Mensah, who encouraged them to continue their good work. He also suggested that the station could develop programmes to promote trade and export opportunities in Ga.
The decline of the Ga language has significant implications for Ghanaian culture and identity. As the country becomes increasingly globalized, it is essential to preserve and promote local languages and cultures. Mr. Mensah's comments highlight the need for collective action to safeguard the Ga language and ensure its continued use among younger generations.
The Ghana EXIM Bank CEO's call to action is a timely reminder of the importance of language preservation. Efforts to promote the Ga language, such as those by Latenu Radio, are crucial in preserving Ghanaian cultural heritage. By working together, it is possible to ensure the continued vitality of the Ga language and its role in shaping Ghanaian identity.
Key stakeholders, including community leaders, educators, and cultural institutions, must collaborate to develop strategies for promoting the Ga language. This can include language classes, cultural events, and media programmes that showcase the language and its significance. By taking proactive steps, it is possible to revitalize the Ga language and ensure its continued relevance in modern Ghanaian society.
Key points
- The Ga language is at risk of decline due to a lack of usage among younger generations.
- Sylvester Mensah urges Latenu Radio to sustain its efforts in promoting the Ga language and develop programmes to help people reconnect with it.
- Preserving the Ga language is essential for maintaining Ghanaian cultural heritage and identity.
