By: Riche-Mike Wellington, Chief Programme Specialist, Social and Human Sciences & Christopher Wetcher Programme Specialist, Culture, Ghana Commission for UNESCO
Ghana is a nation rich in history, cultural vibrancy, and heritage that reflects centuries of traditions, resilience, and identity. From sacred natural sites, iconic forts and castles to captivating artistic expressions, these treasures are more than physical landmarks – they are profound symbols of the country’s legacy and collective memory. Preserving this heritage is a shared responsibility, ensuring future generations can connect with their roots while showcasing Ghana’s unique story to the world.
The 6th Session of the Ghana Heritage Committee (GHC), held on 12th November 2024 at the Ellking Hotel in Accra, marked a pivotal moment in the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its heritage. Stakeholders convened to address pressing conservation challenges and craft a forward-looking roadmap to position Ghana’s cultural and natural heritage as catalysts for sustainable development and global recognition.
A Legacy of Heritage Governance
Heritage governance in Ghana took a significant leap forward in 2020 with the establishment of the Ghana Heritage Committee under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture. This initiative, supported by the Ghana Commission for UNESCO, has brought together policymakers, experts, and other stakeholders to coordinate heritage management efforts under the leadership of one of Ghana’s renowned heritage advocates, Professor Kodzo Gavua of the University of Ghana.
The Committee’s formalization in 2023 through the Ghana Commission for UNESCO Act (Act 1104) reinforced its mandate, enabling the development of key tools such as the Multi-Stakeholder Heritage Strategic Framework (MSHSF) and its Implementation Plan. These frameworks serve as blueprints for ministries, departments, and agencies, aligning efforts to protect Ghana’s diverse heritage.
Well-preserved sites such as Ghana’s forts and castles, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, demonstrate the potential of heritage as both an economic driver and a cultural asset. These sites not only educate citizens, evoke memories of the past and instill pride but also attract international visitors, creating opportunities for tourism-led development.
Urgent Call for Action: Reviving Ghana’s Forts and Castles
Despite their international significance, Ghana’s forts and castles face significant threats due to deterioration and insufficient conservation efforts. UNESCO Advisory Bodies have raised concerns about the potential delisting of these sites from the World Heritage List – a loss that would severely impact Ghana’s global standing.
Cape Coast Castle, Elmina Castle, and other historic sites serve as vital links to the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans and are essential to African diaspora connections. However, their current state underscores the urgency of intervention. The GHC has called for immediate resource mobilization – both nationally and internationally – to restore and protect these monuments.
Drawing inspiration from successes, such as South Africa’s Robben Island Museum and Kenya’s Lamu Old Town, Ghana must establish sustainable models for heritage restoration that engage public and private sectors. The commendation of agencies for advancing the MSHSF during the session also highlighted the importance of embedding strategic actions into annual and long-term plans to ensure progress. A powerful example of this approach is Nigeria’s Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, which has achieved remarkable conservation success through strategic planning and community engagement. Ghana can emulate this model to safeguard its endangered heritage sites.
Strengthening Governance and Collaboration
Effective governance remains central to heritage preservation. The GHC has emerged as a critical institution, yet its success hinges on collaboration with relevant Ministries, Agencies, and local Communities. To enhance its impact, the GHC advocates for a more integrated engagement model, ensuring active involvement in planning, implementation, and monitoring of heritage initiatives.
The preservation of Ethiopia’s Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela exemplifies how strong institutional frameworks combined with community ownership can sustain heritage conservation. Ghana can adopt similar strategies to strengthen its efforts and build resilient partnerships.
To translate these strategies into actionable outcomes, the GHC has proposed organizing a National Heritage Conference. This platform will enable deliberations on innovative approaches to heritage construction and management, including the integration of technology and the establishment of public-private partnerships. Additionally, the conference will highlight Ghana’s success stories and lessons learned, drawing inspiration from initiatives like Rwanda’s Kigali Genocide Memorial, which has become a global symbol of remembrance and education.
A Shared Duty
The resolutions from the 6th Session of the Ghana Heritage Committee reflect a universal truth: heritage preservation is a collective responsibility. It requires the commitment of government institutions, local communities, and international allies to secure Ghana’s cultural identity and elevate the country’s role as a leader in heritage preservation across Africa.
By prioritizing the restoration of its forts and castles, integrating strategic frameworks, and fostering cross-sector collaborations, Ghana will ensure that its cultural treasures continue to inspire pride and global admiration. The GHC’s implementation of these resolutions’ positions Ghana as a beacon of cultural preservation – a nation that honours its past while embracing innovation for the future. This enduring legacy will stand as a testament to Ghana’s dedication to preserving its heritage for generations to come.