Some of our customs and traditions may be outdated (Article)

Written article for publication in a national newspaper, on the topic: Some of our customs and traditions may be outdated.

Many customs and traditions, once taken seriously, have gotten out of date in this day and age. When I consider the positive aspects of these traditions, it fills me with warmth.  We must remember the historical relevance of our customs and traditions in helping to define our identity. Some of these practices and traditions are sadly losing their value.

In the past, customs and traditions were very important in lowering the adolescent pregnancy rate. Mostly carried out on young girls between puberty and their mid-twenties, these rituals signified the passage from childhood to adulthood. Those who didn't meet the requirements for these rituals faced harsh penalties, thereby discouraging others from participating. Teenage pregnancy is on the rise nowadays, which is depressing.

Teenage pregnancies are rising only because we have let our norms and traditions slack. In the past, we used to forbid premarital sex. The prohibition of teenage participation in sexual activities contributed to the relatively low rate of teenage pregnancies.

The lack of these conventions, rites, and ceremonies makes me nostalgic. We should not forget how our historical rituals and traditions shaped our identity. Some of our rituals and traditions are becoming less significant over time.

Once again, honouring holidays can be quite beneficial. Important customs and traditions—festivals—help to maintain our culture, highlight our rich legacy, and support the growth of our society. Festivals provide community growth and enable us to remember our ancestors.

Furthermore, in the early days, life revolved primarily around stories and folklore. Younger generations sought pleasure and knowledge by gathering close to elderly people to hear tales. These legends and folklore provided children, lacking other forms of entertainment, with education. One must preserve these customs.

Finally, our norms and beliefs limit some social vices. Stealing was rare, and those apprehended faced punishment to deter future offenders. Teenage pregnancies and social vices are on the rise today due to a lack of adherence to customs and traditions.

To save our cultural legacy, we must keep the customs and traditions of our ancestors. Maintaining puberty traditions and enjoying holidays, combined with folklore, riddles, and stories, will enable us to negotiate this new age. Solving riddles and "ananse" stories stimulates intelligence and imagination, guiding us through daily challenges.

Kwesi Amoatemg 

Lapaz - Accra

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