The Speaker of Ghana's Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has called for a collaborative endeavor among various stakeholders to establish a comprehensive National Policy that designates a local language as the country's official medium of communication.
Bagbin's emphasis on linguistic sovereignty was underscored by his assertion that Ghana's current official language, English, is essentially a foreign tongue.
He argued, "No society can truly progress and evolve while relying on the language of another."
Drawing a comparative example, Bagbin pointed out the success of Arabic-speaking nations, such as many in the Arab world, which have achieved remarkable development due to their adoption of a language that resonates deeply with their cultural and historical context.
He emphasized that linguistic inclusivity is a catalyst for societal advancement, connecting language to the overall progress of a nation.
The Speaker's advocacy for a local language as the official tongue took center stage during his recent visit to the Palace of the Paramount Chief of Essikado, Nana Kobena Nketia, situated in the Western Region of Ghana.
This meeting provided the platform for Bagbin to articulate his stance on the matter, reinforcing the imperative of linguistic autonomy to foster a sense of unity, heritage, and accelerated growth.
Bagbin's call for a shift in Ghana's linguistic landscape aligns with the broader global trend of recognizing the cultural and developmental significance of language.
As nations worldwide acknowledge the profound role of language in shaping societal values and fostering inclusivity, Bagbin's proposal serves as a proactive step toward revitalizing Ghana's linguistic heritage.
The deliberation on this policy marks a pivotal juncture in the nation's journey towards embracing its linguistic roots, fostering a strong sense of identity, and propelling its development trajectory.