The Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Ablah Dzifa Gomashie, says Africa must take full control of how its heritage stories are told if the continent intends to shape global perceptions and inspire pride among the younger generation.
She made the call during a one-day stakeholder engagement and capacity-building workshop on the Interpretation and Presentation of World Heritage Sites in Africa, in Accra on Monday November 17.
The minister emphasised that the stories surrounding Africa’s cultural and natural heritage have for too long been told from external perspectives, often to the detriment of the continent’s image and identity, hence the need to take full control.
“In that regard, we therefore recognise that our stories around these heritage assets must be told in a strategic way to shape how the world perceives Africa and how our young generation values their origin. We must be in charge of the narrative of our story,” she said.
Gomashie reinforced her point with a saying: “Again, our forebears say, until the lion learns to write, the story will always glorify the hunter.”
“We must be in charge of our own narrative. Ladies and gentlemen, this workshop reflects Africa’s growing commitment to align heritage work with the UNESCO Culture 2030 Indicators and Sustainable Development Goals. By enhancing the interpretation and presentation of our heritage, we contribute to sustainable tourism, cultural education, and community development while promoting mutual understanding and peace.”
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