A 111-year-old grandmother, Wòŋutɔedim Fugah, grandmother of Anlo Afiadenyigba divisional chief Torgbui Akamu V, has expressed deep concerns about the rising levels of indiscipline in modern society, particularly among young people.

According to her, today’s youth no longer recognise the difference between right and wrong, especially when it comes to relationships and marriage.

Speaking to the Joy News team during an engagement on the historical events of Anlo Afiadenyigba in the Keta Municipality, Wòŋutɔedim Fugah, who is also the grandmother of the Divisional Chief of Anlo Afiadenyigba, Torgbui Akamu V, reminisced about the past when discipline, respect, and family values formed the core of society.

The sacredness of marriage and relationships in the past

Recounting life in her youth, she shared how marriages were once sacred, long-lasting, and filled with mutual respect.

According to her, back then, marriage was not just a union between a man and a woman but an alliance between families, built on trust, patience, and shared responsibilities.

“In our time, women were humble and submissive to their husbands, not out of fear but out of love and respect. And men adored their wives, provided for them, and treated them as queens,” she recalled.

“Marriage was a sacred bond, not a temporary arrangement that could be discarded at any moment.”

She lamented how, in today’s world, many young people enter relationships without understanding commitment.

“Now, it is common to see relationships break apart over trivial issues. There is no patience, no tolerance, and no respect.”

The struggles and determination of the past

Wòŋutɔedim Fugah also took the opportunity to reflect on how people in her era worked hard to build a meaningful life.

She spoke about how women would walk long distances to trade in other towns, carrying goods on their heads to sell and buy essential items for their families.

“Life was not easy, but we had discipline and perseverance,” she noted. “Even though we struggled, there was peace in our communities.

People were content with what they had, and we worked hard to sustain our families. Now, many young people do not want to work hard, yet they desire a luxurious life overnight.”

A plea for a return to good values

As Ghana observes Ghana Month and Independence Day, Wòŋutɔedim Fugah called on young people to reflect on the values that shaped society in the past.

She urged them to embrace discipline, respect, and hard work, as these were the foundations of a peaceful and progressive society.

“We are losing our morals and values. If we do not return to them, the future will be difficult. The youth must learn from the past and uphold the right values,” she emphasised.

Her words serve as a powerful reminder that, despite modernisation, cultural values, discipline, and respect should not be abandoned.

As Ghana celebrates its heritage, voices like hers echo the need for a balanced society where traditions and progress coexist harmoniously.

Conclusion

Wòŋutɔedim Fugah’s reflections highlight the need for deeper conversations on cultural values, marriage, and discipline in today’s society.

Her wisdom, drawn from over a century of experience, offers guidance not only for the younger generation but for the entire nation as Ghana continues to evolve.