The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) is advocating for a resurgence of indigenous Ghanaian foods in hotels and restaurants across the country to promote the consumption of these traditional dishes.
Mrs. Folace Ofosuhene-Sintim, the Standard and Quality Assurance Officer at the Bono Regional Office of GTA, emphasized the nutritional value and cultural significance of indigenous Ghanaian foods. She expressed concern over the growing preference for foreign delicacies among Ghanaians, attributing it to the neglect of local dishes within the hospitality sector.
Speaking at the regional launch of Feast Ghana, a culinary celebration in Sunyani, Mrs. Ofosuhene-Sintim highlighted the diverse range of local foods rich in protein, carbohydrates, and other essential nutrients crucial for building immunity.
She urged hotels and restaurants to incorporate indigenous recipes such as “Etor, Apramprasa, Tuozaafi or Diehuo, Mpotompoto, Konkonte, Nuhuu, Yake Yake, Akankyiee, and Etew” into their menus and promote them effectively to attract patrons, both local and foreign.
Mrs. Ofosuhene-Sintim stressed the importance of proper preparation, seasoning, and packaging of local dishes to enhance their appeal to consumers. She noted that many Ghanaians opt for foreign foods due to limited accessibility and perceived inadequacies in the preparation of local meals.
Mr. Emmanuel Ansu, the Bono Regional Director of the Center for National Culture (CNC), highlighted the link between unhealthy eating habits and the prevalence of non-communicable diseases. He underscored the health benefits of locally prepared Ghanaian dishes and urged individuals to prioritize them for their nutritional value.
Mr. Francis Kodom, the Deputy Bono Regional Director of CNC, echoed the sentiment, urging Ghanaians to preserve and cherish their indigenous foods as part of their cultural identity.
The initiative spearheaded by GTA and CNC aims to reinvigorate interest in local cuisine, celebrate Ghana's cultural diversity through food, and promote healthier eating habits among the populace.
