Lydia Forson Talks Against Replacing Ghanaian Names with Foreign Cultural References

Ghanaian actress Lydia Forson has expressed concern over what she describes as a growing habit among Ghanaians of replacing local names, expressions and cultural references with terms borrowed from other countries.

The actress believes the seemingly minor changes in everyday language could have wider implications for Ghana’s cultural identity, particularly if the trend continues without efforts to preserve indigenous names, traditions and expressions.

In a social media post, Lydia pointed to the increasing use of puff puff instead of the Ghanaian name bofrot as one example of the trend.

She also cited the growing use of Ankara to refer to ntoma, questioning whether such changes could gradually cause Ghanaians to lose connection with their own cultural heritage.

“You might think it’s a small thing, but it doesn’t stop with food. We’re even calling ntoma Ankara now. But that’s how we slowly erase who we are,” she stated.

Lydia, who has consistently spoken about the importance of embracing Ghanaian culture, said the development was worrying, especially at a time when the country is already facing challenges in preserving indigenous languages and traditions.

She acknowledged that language and culture are not static and will naturally change over time, but argued that such evolution should not come at the expense of things that are uniquely Ghanaian.

“Look, I know language and culture evolve, and I also have no issues with other cultures. In fact, I love and appreciate them. What would there be to appreciate if they were the same as us?” she asked.

The actress also questioned why Ghanaians often appear more willing to embrace foreign names, trends and products while showing comparatively less enthusiasm for their own cultural expressions.

“I want to know: why are we so quick to set aside what is ours? Why don’t we appreciate our own?” she asked.

According to Lydia, the issue extends beyond food and clothing and can be seen in different areas of Ghanaian life, including music, food and drinks.

She suggested that Ghanaians sometimes appear more enthusiastic about promoting foreign products and cultural influences than celebrating and promoting what originates from Ghana.

The actress further expressed frustration over the involvement of some leaders in the same behaviour, despite their calls for citizens to take pride in the country, support local products and promote Ghanaian culture.

“What makes it more frustrating is that even some of our leaders do this, then turn around and tell us to be proud of Ghana, support Ghana and promote Ghana,” she said.

For Lydia, the matter is not simply about whether people choose one name over another when referring to everyday items.

She believes that repeatedly replacing indigenous cultural expressions with foreign alternatives could eventually influence how younger generations perceive, understand and value their heritage.

“How do we expect people to value our culture if we keep treating it as something to replace?” she asked.

The actress connected her concerns to her work with Kinky Matters, explaining that the brand was created partly from her desire to preserve aspects of Ghanaian identity while still engaging with and appreciating the wider world.

She described Kinky Matters as being more than products to her and said the same motivation informed the creation of the Kinky Experience, which she established as another platform for celebrating Ghanaian culture.

“I’m determined to hold on to as much of us through whatever means possible while adapting and appreciating the world around us,” she said.

Lydia, however, clarified that her position should not be interpreted as criticism of other cultures or countries.

She stressed that appreciating cultural influences from elsewhere and preserving Ghanaian identity can happen at the same time.

“Again, this isn’t against other cultures or countries. We can appreciate others and hold on to ours,” she stated.

Source: Graphics Online