Accra: Culture is defined as the shared beliefs, customs, and social behaviors of a particular group of people that distinguish them from other groups. It encompasses a wide range of aspects, including language, arts, food, religion, and social norms, all of which shape how people interact with each other and the environment. Culture is learned and not innate, providing a framework for understanding and guiding behaviors. Names, ways of dressing, and greetings also reflect cultural backgrounds. Understanding culture is crucial for navigating a diverse world, fostering communication and understanding, and appreciating the richness and complexity of human societies.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Ghanaian culture has been vibrant and celebrated throughout history. The rich tapestry of Ghanaian culture is influenced by indigenous traditions and colonial experiences. Ghana, with an approximate population of 33 million, is home to many tribes such as Akans, Gas, Ga-Dangbes, Guans, Dagombas, Mamprusis, Gonjas, Ewes, Fantis, and Nzemas, each identified by its cultural heritage. For instance, the Ashanti culture is known for its bright fabrics, exquisite woodworking, and traditional music like adowa and fontofrom.
Rev. Samuel Amegboe, Pastor in-charge of Awudome Tsito Area of the Assemblies of God Church in the Ho West District of the Volta Region, emphasized that ignoring cultural norms can greatly affect mutual cohesion and the realization of common community objectives. He distinguished between culture and tradition, stating that culture is God-given and natural, while tradition is what people do over time, often holding onto it alongside religious practices.
Rev. Amegboe noted that Christians should view culture as natural and not sinful. However, he urged for clear distinctions to be made to ensure that individuals are not misled into following ungodly traditions perceived as culture. He added that these are subtly embedded in social activities, particularly at festivals. He further stated that while culture is not synonymous with godliness or Christianity, the Church thrives better within the cultural setting of the people without compromising the Gospel of Christ. He warned that church traditions should not infringe upon the Word of God.
Mama Agbeewornu, Acting Queenmother of Adaklu Kodzobi, pointed out that some Christians and educated individuals today associate culture with the fetish. She asserted that culture is essential for differentiating between people and encouraged pride in cultural heritage instead of shying away from it in the name of Christianity or modernity. She declared, "Culture is our way of life and our identity."
The Ewe culture was prominently displayed at Adaklu Kodzobi in the Adaklu District, where six communities from three districts of the Volta Region concluded their fourth Goeviwo festival with a grand durbar. Chiefs adorned in rich kente, gold ornaments, and beads, along with teenage girls carrying 'nutsordidi' (loads of kente cloths, gold ornaments, and beads), and various traditional drumming groups like asafo, gabada, and borborbor were featured. While people from the Diaspora admire the rich Ghanaian culture, some modern-day Christians and educated individuals demonize it.
In the words of Rev. Amegboe and Mama Agbeewornu, culture is not sin, it is not fetish but "our way of life, our identity, and our heritage."
