Ghana recently marked the inaugural International Day of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) in Accra, emphasizing the socio-economic significance of the nation’s living heritage. Organized by the National Folklore Board (NFB) in collaboration with UNESCO, the event gathered cultural custodians, government officials, and stakeholders to discuss the theme, “The socio-economic benefits of living heritage in Ghana.”
Professor Abdullai Salifu Asuro, Chair of the NFB, highlighted Ghana’s ICH as a vital part of national identity, with customs, oral histories, performing arts, and rituals shaping the country’s cultural legacy. He stressed the importance of preserving these traditions in the face of globalization and modernization, which pose a threat to cultural continuity.
NFB Executive Director, Mrs. Bernice Ann Deh-Kumah, noted that the event marked a significant milestone in safeguarding Ghana’s heritage, with the country’s Kente weaving nomination under review for ICH status at UNESCO’s 19th Intergovernmental Committee session. She called for youth involvement in preserving these traditions, emphasizing the potential for blending heritage with technology.
The NFB, in collaboration with UNESCO, is developing an online platform to store and share ICH information. UNESCO’s National Programme Officer for Culture, Mr. Carl Ampah, underscored the role of living heritage in fostering creativity, supporting sustainable development, and providing livelihoods. He urged the NFB to leverage social media and communication strategies to promote public awareness of ICH preservation.
Madam Ama Serwah Nerquaye-Tetteh, Secretary General of the Ghana Commission for UNESCO, emphasized that traditional practices such as Kente weaving and bead making are crucial to local economies, tourism, and job creation.
Ghana ratified the 2003 Convention for safeguarding ICH, reinforcing its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. Global celebrations for the day included an online discussion on the impact of artificial intelligence on ICH, exploring how AI can support or challenge the safeguarding of living heritage.
