The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has issued a call to Nananom (chiefs) in the Ashanti region to play a vital role in preserving the Twi language among children.
Speaking at the Bonwire Kante festival as part of the Ashantifest 2025 celebrations today , Dr. Amoakohene emphasized the importance of ensuring that children maintain a strong grasp of the Twi language.
Observations from a Twi Competition.
The regional minister’s call follows his observations during a Twi competition between students from rural districts and those from municipalities ,a program that was designed by the regional coordinating Council as part of the Ashantifest 2025.
Dr. Amoakohene noted that students from rural districts demonstrated a remarkable command of the Twi language, while those from municipalities struggled with pronunciation and spelling. This disparity highlights a concerning trend where children in urban areas are gradually losing control of their mother tongue.
Importance of Preserving Local Language.
Dr. Amoakohene stressed that the preservation of the Twi language is essential for maintaining the cultural heritage and identity of the Ashanti people. He urged Nananom to take an active role in promoting the language among children, encouraging them to speak, read, and write Twi with fluency and accuracy.
Role of Nananom in Language Preservation.
The regional minister emphasized that Nananom are custodians of culture and tradition, and their involvement is crucial in ensuring the continuation of the Twi language.
By working together, Dr. Amoakohene believes that it is possible to reverse the trend of language loss among children and promote a stronger connection to their cultural roots.
Dr. Frank Amoakohene’s call to action serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving local languages and cultural heritage. By working together, Nananom, parents, and educators can help ensure that children in the Ashanti region maintain a strong command of the Twi language, thereby preserving the region’s rich cultural identity for future generations.
Source:Ayisah Foster||Punch newspaper
