The Paramount Chief of the Effutu Traditional Area, Neenyi Ghartey VII, has urged young creatives in Ghana to pursue international recognition while remaining firmly grounded in their cultural heritage.
He cautioned that the growing influence of foreign lifestyles, often glamorised on social media platforms, is leading many young people to abandon local traditions in favour of superficial imitations of other cultures.
Neenyi Ghartey VII made the remarks in an exclusive interaction on the sidelines of activities marking the 30th anniversary of his enstoolment, alongside a fundraising luncheon held at the Jophus Anamuah Mensah Conference Centre at the University of Education, Winneba, on Saturday, January 24. The traditional ruler, who also serves as Chancellor of the university, said Ghana’s rising presence in music, fashion, film and digital content creation must be driven by cultural authenticity rather than imitation.
According to him, tradition should not be viewed as a barrier to progress but as a foundation for originality. He stressed that global audiences are drawn to creativity that reflects identity and authenticity, not replication.
Neenyi Ghartey VII noted that while the digital era has expanded opportunities for young creatives, it has also intensified the tension between modern influence and cultural identity. He explained that social media itself is not the problem, but rather the mindset that elevates everything foreign while dismissing indigenous culture as outdated.
He emphasised that culture must be allowed to evolve with time but warned against its erosion, noting that cultural continuity is essential to national identity.
The paramount chief further described Ghana’s entertainment and creative industries as vital instruments for preserving cultural heritage. He said musicians, filmmakers, fashion designers and digital creators now serve as custodians of history, using their work to reflect the country’s values, beliefs and collective identity.
He encouraged young creatives to be confident, innovative and forward thinking, while remaining proud ambassadors of their roots as they engage with the global stage.
