The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Mr. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, has called for calm and balanced dialogue amid public discussions over the proposed substitution of the Twi word “Akwaaba” with the Ga expression “Oobakɛ” at the Kotoka International Airport and the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.

In a press statement issued on Friday, the Minister stressed that the concerns of the Ga people, as custodians of the land on which the capital city stands, are legitimate and deserving of respect.

“The Ga people have every right to raise concerns about the preservation and promotion of their language and cultural identity. As Minister, I remain fully committed to ensuring that our cultural heritage, traditions, and linguistic legacy are respected, protected and preserved for generations to come,” she stated.

However, she emphasised that Ghana’s unity is built on the coexistence of its diverse ethnic groups.

“Our strength lies in the coexistence of various ethnic groups whose values and traditions enrich our national identity.

Just as the concerns of the Ga people are important, so too would the voices of the Ashanti, the Ewe and all other ethnic groups be treated with equal seriousness,” she added.

Highlighting her own family’s diversity, the Minister noted that she was married to an Ewe and her children bear Ewe names, underscoring her personal commitment to inclusiveness.

“I stand firmly against any interpretation that seeks to pit one ethnic group against another.

This government is here to serve all Ghanaians without bias,” she stressed.

Hon. Ocloo assured stakeholders that the government will engage in broad consultations on the matter to ensure a solution that honours Ga-Dangme heritage while safeguarding national unity.

“The preservation of Ga culture is not in opposition to national cohesion.

Rather, it is an integral part of our collective identity.

Together, we shall continue to uphold our cultural heritage while promoting unity, peace and development across our beloved nation,” the statement concluded.