Accra, (Greater Accra) 16 Oct. '98 Mr Donald Adabre, Upper East Regional Minister, has stressed the need for Ghanaians to wage a relentless war against undesirable foreign cultural practices. Launching the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFAC) '98 at the National Theatre in Accra, Mr Adabre said efforts should be made ''to do away with obsolete, obnoxious and dehumanising bits of our indigenous culture still practised in some parts of the country''. The week-long national celebration is scheduled to take place in Bolgatanga from 31 October through to 6 November '98.
It aims at demonstrating the basic unity underlying the apparently diverse cultures of Ghanaians, promoting domestic tourism and unearthing artistic talents. Activities lined up for NAFAC '98 includee, regional days' celebration, children's day celebration, symposium, tree planting, exhibition, film shows, traditional games and bazaar. It is on the theme "The challenges of cultural preservation -- the strengthening of our National Identity in the next millennium",
Mr Adabre charged the Ghana Tourist Board to develop internal tourism not only to generate income for the nation but to also bring the people closer, thus fostering self-understanding, unity and development. The Regional Minister said the festival will enable Upper East to exhibit its rich culture and expose its economic potentials to Ghanaian and foreign investors alike.
"The famous Bolga baskets, hats, leather goods and smocks will all be on display amidst cultural drumming and dancing." GRi
