Ghanaian symbols and Adinkra motifs should form the foundation of branding activities for Ghana’s 70th Independence Anniversary celebrations to project the country’s identity and preserve its cultural heritage, Mr Stanley Felten, Chief Executive Officer of the African Art and Culture Development Company (AACD-African Arts), has said.
Speaking in an interview with the media, Mr Felten said Ghana’s indigenous arts and crafts offered a unique opportunity to showcase the nation’s history, values and achievements while strengthening national unity.
He said incorporating authentic Ghanaian symbols, Adinkra motifs and locally produced artefacts into the anniversary celebrations would help tell the story of Ghana’s independence in a culturally meaningful and globally recognisable way.
Mr Felten noted that the anniversary should go beyond ceremonial events to become a platform for promoting Ghana’s rich artistic heritage and supporting the country’s creative economy.
He said the use of indigenous designs in official branding, decorations, souvenirs and public installations would deepen appreciation of Ghana’s cultural identity among citizens, particularly the youth.
“The 70th Independence Anniversary presents an opportunity to celebrate who we are as a people and project our authentic identity to the rest of the world,” he said.
Mr Felten urged government agencies, event organisers and corporate institutions involved in the celebrations to prioritise locally inspired designs and artworks instead of relying on imported concepts that did not reflect Ghana’s cultural values.
He said such an approach would create business opportunities for local artists, craftsmen and designers while preserving traditional knowledge and skills for future generations.
The AACD-African Arts Chief Executive expressed confidence that placing Ghanaian symbols and Adinkra motifs at the centre of the anniversary branding would reinforce national pride and leave a lasting legacy beyond the celebrations.
