The government has relaunched the iconic “By the Fire Side” storytelling initiative through the National Folklore Board (NFB) in a bid to preserve Ghana’s rich cultural heritage and oral traditions.
The monthly event, which was reintroduced at the NFB office in Cantonments, Accra, will take place every second Friday of the month.
It will showcase stories from various regions of Ghana, delivered in local languages to celebrate the nation’s cultural and linguistic diversity.
Representing the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Madam Dzifa Ablah Gomashie, at the launch, a speech described storytelling as a “living library” vital for education, moral instruction, and national identity.
“We cannot allow a very important intangible cultural heritage to go down, as it serves in safeguarding our society’s identity, fostering social cohesion, and promoting economic growth,” she noted.
She added that the initiative, as part of the government’s “Black Star Experience” introduced under President John Mahama, would also support cultural tourism.
Executive Director of the National Folklore Board, Mrs Bernice Ann Deh-Kumah, emphasized the Board’s role in protecting and promoting Ghana’s intangible cultural assets under the Copyright Act, 2005 (Act 690). She highlighted ongoing efforts including the celebration of World Folklore Day, the creation of folklore clubs in schools, and community-focused events. Calling for public support, she encouraged parents to help reconnect children with traditional stories—ranging from Ananse tales to the symbolism of Kente and Adinkra—affirming the initiative’s aim to keep Ghana’s storytelling heritage alive for generations.
