Actress Lydia Forson has raised concerns about what she describes as a growing tendency among Ghanaians to replace local names, expressions and cultural references with those borrowed from other countries
According to her, what may appear to be harmless changes in language could gradually contribute to the erosion of Ghanaian cultural identity if not checked.
In a post on social media, Lydia cited the increasing use of “puff puff” in place of the Ghanaian name “bofrot” and the use of “Ankara” to describe “ntoma” as examples of what worries her.
“You might think it’s a small thing, but it doesn’t stop with food. We’re even calling ntoma Ankara now. But that’s how we slowly erase who we are,” she stated.
Lydia, who has been vocal about the need for Ghanaians to embrace their culture, said the issue was particularly concerning because the country was already struggling to preserve its indigenous languages and traditions.
She noted that while cultures and languages naturally evolve, there should still be a conscious effort to preserve what is uniquely Ghanaian.
“Look, I know language and culture evolve, and I also have no issues with other cultures. In fact, I love and appreciate them. What would there be to appreciate if they were the same as us?” she asked.
The actress also questioned why Ghanaians were often quick to embrace foreign names, trends and products while showing less enthusiasm for their own.
“I want to know: why are we so quick to set aside what is ours? Why don’t we appreciate our own?” she asked.
She said the trend was evident across several aspects of Ghanaian life, including music, food and drinks, adding that Ghanaians sometimes appeared more excited about promoting foreign products and culture than their own.
Lydia also expressed frustration that some leaders participate in the same behaviour while encouraging citizens to be proud of Ghana and support local products and culture.
“What makes it more frustrating is that even some of our leaders do this, then turn around and tell us to be proud of Ghana, support Ghana and promote Ghana,” she said.
For Lydia, the issue goes beyond the names used for everyday things. She believes repeatedly replacing local cultural expressions could affect how younger generations understand and value their heritage.
“How do we expect people to value our culture if we keep treating it as something to replace?” she asked.
The actress linked her concerns to her work with Kinky Matters, a brand she said was created partly out of her desire to preserve aspects of Ghanaian identity while embracing the wider world.
She explained that Kinky Matters was “more than products” to her and that it was the motivation behind the Kinky Experience, which she started as another platform to celebrate Ghanaian culture.
“I’m determined to hold on to as much of us through whatever means possible while adapting and appreciating the world around us,” she said.
Lydia, however, stressed that her comments should not be interpreted as an attack on other cultures or countries.
“Again, this isn’t against other cultures or countries. We can appreciate others and hold on to ours,” she stated.
