The Deputy Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Hon. Mark Okraku Mantey, has emphasized the critical need for increased collaboration and innovation in efforts to preserve and promote Ghana’s rich heritage.
His remarks were made during the presentation of the second edition of “A Panorama of Ghana’s Heritage” at the George Padmore Library in Accra. Invited by the Spanish Ambassador, His Excellency Javier Gutierrez, Hon. Mantey represented the sector minister at the event.
“This book represents the commitment of the publishers to enhancing the documentation of Ghana’s heritage and its preservation for posterity.”
Hon. Mark Okraku Mantey, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture
Hon. Mantey also extended special appreciation to UNESCO and the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) for their collaborative role in bringing the project to fruition, underscoring it as a testament to the long-term dedication of UNESCO and the Spanish government to Ghana.
The event, attended by dignitaries, cultural enthusiasts, and members of the diplomatic community, highlighted the importance of international cooperation in cultural preservation.
Hon. Mantey noted that such partnerships are crucial for the sustainable preservation and promotion of cultural heritage. “This piece of literature is undoubtedly a key tourism promotion toolkit, and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture intends to utilize this tool to advance the goals of the sector,” he said.
Hon. Mantey shared his impressions of the book, commending its thoroughness and the quality of its content.
“I have had the privilege of reading the book, and I must commend how thorough it is. The first part of the book features images of Ghana’s heritage with historical and cultural annotations according to the various regions. The second part features notes on the images presented in the first part.”
Hon. Mark Okraku Mantey, Deputy Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture
The Deputy Minister highlighted that the book is not only a beautiful collection of Ghana’s cultural artifacts and heritage sites but also serves as an educational resource and a promotional tool that can boost tourism.
The presentation of the second edition of “A Panorama of Ghana’s Heritage” marks a significant contribution to the literature on Ghana’s cultural heritage. It showcases the diverse and rich traditions of Ghana, from the ancient Ashanti Kingdom to the modern-day cultural practices observed across the nation. The book’s comprehensive approach, combining visual imagery with detailed annotations, provides an invaluable resource for both Ghanaians and international audiences.
Uniting Generations Through Ghana’s Cultural Heritage
Hon. Mantey’s remarks also touched on the broader goals of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture.
“Together, we can ensure that the legacy we inherit today will continue to inspire and unite us for generations to come,” Hon. Mantey said. His speech underscored the role of cultural heritage in national identity and unity, stressing the need for all stakeholders to work together in preserving this heritage.
The collaboration between UNESCO, AECID, and the publishers of the book is a model for future projects aimed at cultural preservation. It highlights the importance of international support and cooperation in achieving sustainable development goals related to culture. The Deputy Minister called for more such initiatives, where local and international partners can join forces to protect and promote cultural heritage.
The event concluded with a note of optimism and a call to action for greater participation from both the public and private sectors. Hon. Mantey urged all stakeholders, including educational institutions, cultural organizations, and the general public, to embrace the book and use it as a tool to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Ghana’s heritage.
The presentation of “A Panorama of Ghana’s Heritage” and the accompanying remarks by Hon. Mark Okraku Mantey highlight the ongoing efforts and the critical need for collaborative and innovative approaches to preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage. The event serves as a reminder of the rich cultural tapestry that Ghana possesses and the collective responsibility to safeguard it for future generations.
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