Strong Call from Ga Mantse: Respect the Ga People as True Custodians of Accra

Ga Mantse Calls for Respect for Ga People

Respect Ga People – The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has made a heartfelt appeal for greater respect for the Ga people, who remain the custodians of Ghana’s capital city, Accra. Speaking during a colorful durbar at Kpone to climax the 2025 Homowo celebrations on Saturday, August 30, 2025, the revered King expressed his deep concern about what he described as a growing disregard for Ga traditions, customs, and people.

According to the Ga Mantse, the Ga State has been instrumental in Ghana’s growth, especially as hosts of the capital, yet the respect owed to the Ga people is gradually fading. He emphasized that while Accra has become a melting pot of diverse cultures and people, it must never come at the expense of Ga identity and dignity.

The Role of Ga People in Hosting Ghana’s Capital

King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II reminded Ghanaians that the success of Accra as the country’s capital is deeply tied to the accommodating nature of the Ga people. He explained that the welcoming spirit of the Ga has allowed people from different regions, ethnicities, and even other countries to settle, work, and thrive in the Greater Accra Region.

“We will not drive anyone away from Accra because our nature is rooted in hospitality and openness. But the least we expect is respect and honor. Accra is successful today because of the generosity of the Ga people. It should never happen that we are looked down upon or disregarded in our own land,” the Ga Mantse passionately declared.

The King’s statement was received with thunderous applause by the gathering, many of whom echoed his call for balance between diversity and the rightful recognition of Ga heritage.

Safeguarding Peace and Development

The Ga Mantse reassured the people of Accra and beyond that the Ga Traditional Council remains committed to maintaining peace and harmony in the Greater Accra Region. He noted that peace has always been a cornerstone of development, and the Ga leadership continues to uphold it despite challenges of urban expansion and cultural shifts.

He called for unity among ethnic groups living in Accra, urging them to appreciate the customs of the Ga people while contributing to the broader socio-economic progress of Ghana.

“Respect for Ga traditions strengthens our cultural identity and empowers traditional authority. When traditional leadership is strong, peace and development become easier to achieve. Our priority is to ensure Greater Accra remains not only the capital of Ghana but also a beacon of harmony and prosperity,” he emphasized.

Preservation of Ga Customs and Traditions

In his speech, the Ga Mantse strongly advocated for the preservation of Ga customs and traditions, which he said are gradually being overshadowed by modern influences and neglect. He explained that festivals such as Homowo are not just cultural events but living symbols of resilience, heritage, and unity for the Ga people.

The King urged Ghanaians, especially residents of Accra, to learn about and respect Ga traditions as a way of strengthening national identity. He further explained that cultural diversity is only meaningful when each group’s customs are recognized and respected.

Appeal to Corporate Institutions for Development

Beyond cultural preservation, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II also directed a strong appeal to corporate bodies operating within Kpone and the Greater Accra Region. He called on them to prioritize development projects that would directly benefit local communities, particularly in education, healthcare, sanitation, and infrastructure.

According to him, meaningful corporate social responsibility initiatives can make a significant difference in raising the standard of living in host communities. He emphasized that companies enjoying the economic benefits of operating in Ga land must also invest back into the people and environment.

Why Respecting Ga People Matters

The Ga Mantse’s address highlights an important national conversation about inclusivity, respect, and identity in Ghana’s rapidly urbanizing capital. The growing cosmopolitan nature of Accra has created opportunities but has also led to tensions over land use, cultural neglect, and recognition of indigenous authority.

Respecting the Ga people goes beyond tradition; it is about acknowledging their sacrifices, land, and legacy in making Accra a thriving hub for government, business, and international affairs. Without honoring the custodians of the land, the capital risks losing a vital part of its cultural foundation.

Conclusion – Respect Ga People

The message from King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II during the Homowo festival serves as a timely reminder that while Accra belongs to all Ghanaians, it is first and foremost the home of the Ga people. Their role as custodians must be respected, their traditions preserved, and their contributions recognized.

As the nation looks forward to more development in Accra, ensuring that the Ga people are respected and supported is not only fair but also essential for sustainable peace and growth. The Ga Mantse’s call is therefore not just for the Ga State but for all Ghanaians to build a future rooted in respect, unity, and cultural pride.

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