Veteran highlife musician and cultural advocate Akosua Agyapong has appealed for calm amid growing tensions over calls by some Ga-Dangme indigenes to replace the “Akwaaba” signage at Kotoka International Airport with the Ga equivalent, “Obaake.”
The campaigners argue that because the airport sits on Ga land, the signage should reflect Ga culture.
However, the demand has stirred heated exchanges on social media and in public discourse, raising fears of tribal sentiment creeping into national conversations.
Addressing the controversy, Akosua Agyapong described the agitation as unnecessary, stressing that “Akwaaba” has evolved beyond its Akan roots to become a national symbol of hospitality.
“Akwaaba is just like how we use Adowa to welcome dignitaries, even outside the Ashanti Region. If we say Akwaaba should be removed because it’s Akan, then by the same logic we shouldn’t perform Adowa to honor guests,” she explained.
While acknowledging the importance of safeguarding Ga cultural heritage, the musician suggested that a separate monument or inscription could be established at the airport to highlight Ga traditions, rather than erasing what has become an established national identity marker.
She further cautioned against actions that could fuel tribal divisions, urging Ghanaians to focus on unity and inclusivity.
“We should not allow culture to divide us. Akwaaba belongs to all of us now, and we can equally create space to celebrate Ga heritage without replacing it,” she added.
Her comments add to the growing debate, with cultural experts and political leaders weighing in on how best to balance Ghana’s ethnic diversity with symbols of national identity.