The month anticipated by most Ghanaians - March has arrived - marking a significant period for the nation to commemorate its independence, honour its forefathers, and reminisce about historic milestones.

Ghana Month is a time when citizens proudly embrace their local culture, dressing in traditional attire, relishing local cuisines, and showcasing the country’s rich heritage.

Both young and old are perpetuating the customs, culture and traditions inherited from their ancestry.

This year, the Old Tafo Municipal Assembly in the Ashanti region launched Ghana Month with a unique blend of historic preservation and cultural significance, showcasing scrumptious delicacies and the rich Ghanaian identity.

Schools in the municipality marked week-long series of activities with each day dedicated to a unique aspect of the Ghanaian culture.

The initiative, which began with a colourful display of heritage across educational institutions, aims at deepening national pride and cultural appreciation among students.

From locally-made African prints to Kente and the now popular Fugu, the students brightened their campuses with the colourful regalia.

Some schools marched through the communities donning Old-fashioned clothes to celebrate the legacy of our forebearers.

Others prepared tasteful local meals including fufu, banku, ɛtɔ (mashed ripe plantains with oil), zuo zaafi among other delicacies.

Planning Officer at the Old Tafo Municipal Education Office, Bernard Osei Bioh, explained the rationale behind the Assembly’s decision to spearhead such a celebration.

He emphasized the importance of fostering patriotism and cultural identity in the younger generation.

“The municipal is trying to nurture our children to make them understand where they are coming from, to hold the heritage and tradition they have so that they can preserve it. They can also teach it to their children when they grow up,” he noted.

Mr. Osei Bioh also encouraged other ministries and departments to participate in Ghana Month festivities, highlighting the collective responsibility to celebrate and preserve Ghana’s heritage.

“We encourage every other district, not only the Ghana education service, but also the Ghana health service and other department to also partake in some of these things. Because at the end of the day, that is what we are trying to impart,” he added.

Assistant Head Teacher (Academics) at Old Tafo SDA School, Frederick Appiah, reiterated the school’s commitment to celebrating the nation.

He noted the positive impact the activities will have on students, citing increased awareness and appreciation for Ghanaian culture as key outcomes.

“We want them to be patriotic so they will see the importance of celebrating those who fought for us. It’s the blood of some people that is making us see the Ghana we are seeing today,” he said.

Head girl of Old Tafo SDA School also shared her excitement about the program, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to learn more about Ghana’s heritage.

She noted that participating in Ghana Month has instilled a greater sense of pride and belonging among students as she looks forward to future celebrations.

“Today we are cooking our traditional food. The food that we eat now like pizza, indomie and others have made us forget our traditional foods. So the program has helped me to know our culture. I have learnt a lot of things this week and I hope to pass it on to others,” she explained.

As Ghana Month unfolds, the Old Tafo Municipal Assembly’s celebrations set a vibrant example, inspiring communities across the nation to embrace and showcase the essence of Ghanaian identity.