Highlife musician and cultural advocate Akosua Agyapong has called for calm following tensions sparked by demands from some Ga-Dangme indigenes to replace the “Akwaaba” signage at Kotoka International Airport with “Obaake,” the Ga word for welcome.
The group argues that since the airport is on Ga land, the signage should reflect Ga culture. Their demands, however, have generated heated exchanges, raising concerns over tribal sentiments.
Responding to the development, Akosua Agyapong described the agitation as unnecessary, emphasizing that “Akwaaba” has become a national symbol of hospitality. She noted that the slogan transcends ethnicity and is widely embraced across Ghana.
“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 said.
While acknowledging the importance of preserving Ga heritage, Akosua Agyapong suggested that a separate monument could be created to showcase Ga cultural elements, rather than removing an established national symbol.
She cautioned against actions that could escalate tribal divisions, urging stakeholders to prioritise unity over controversy.
