Benkasa: Nana Agartha Kyeraa, a Priestess and Caretaker of the Benkasa 'Ntensere shrine', expressed disappointment in the lack of recognition of local deities and traditional gods in the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving event. She stated that this omission was an affront to Ghanaian culture and tradition, urging the government to issue an unqualified apology and to respect and preserve traditional beliefs and culture, which she described as the foundation of the nation's religious history.
According to Ghana News Agency, Nana Kyeraa, in an interview at Benkasa, emphasized the importance of local deities in maintaining peace and social unity. She argued that these deities deserved recognition for their role in preserving Ghanaian culture and tradition, which she sees as integral to the nation's identity. Nana Kyeraa remarked, "There is no way we can change our belief systems. Our local deities have also contributed to strengthening the prevailing peace and social unity, and we must therefore appreciate that and give them the deserving recognition too."
Furthermore, Nana Kyeraa highlighted the moral and cultural values promoted by idol worship, noting that it fosters high morals, discipline, principles, and respect. She attributed the current rise in corruption, moral decadence, and lawlessness in the country partly to the neglect of traditional beliefs and culture. Nana Kyeraa warned that the development of the country could be hindered if the significance of local gods and deities continued to be undermined, as they are considered the backbone of Ghana's tradition and culture.
