Ga Dangmes in Diaspora lament over dying Ga language

King Tackie Tawiah, Ga Mantse

Participants at the just-ended Ga Dangme International (GDI) Conference have expressed worry about the gradual decline in the teaching of the Ga language in schools in the Greater Accra Region.

The participants were of the view that before independence, it was documented in the country's Constitution that every child in each region must study and write the local language in the region he/she schooled.

In an exclusive interview with the Accra File, one of the founding members of the GDI, Dr. Benjamin Dodoo, a medical practitioner in New York, noted that it was about time Ga Dangme indigenes stood for their rights in preserving their culture and language, and revealed that plans were far advanced to petition the government on the issue.

Dr. Dodoo said due to the influx of other indigenes into South Eastern Ghana, the Ga language should not be sacrificed or compromised.

He said due to these mishaps in the speaking of the Ga language, most Ga writers have run out of business, since their Ga books are not being patronised.

Dr. Dodoo noted that the Queen's language was the official language of the country and should be regarded as such, adding that 'if any language at all will be used for communication, it should be the language of the indigenes, and not any foreign language.'

He appealed to the government, through the Ministry of Education, to ensure that the teaching of the Ga language in public and private schools is adhered to and respected, in line with the country's Constitution.

Dwelling on the increase in the population of Accra, Dr. Dodoo said Ga youth graduates were at risk in acquisition of profitable jobs, as they have to compete with other students.

He said the GDI was liaising with organisations to raise substantial amounts to help in educating the youth of Ga and its surrounding villages.