Writers must tell Africa’s story through literature and local languages – Vice President to PAWA Ghana delegation

Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang emphasized the significance of literature and indigenous languages in preserving Africa's identity, history, and cultural heritage. During a Facebook post on August 3, she informed the Pan-African Writers Association (PAWA) Ghana delegation about the organization's objectives centered around promoting literature, safeguarding languages, and advancing Pan-Africanism through writing.

The Vice President praised PAWA Ghana for its advocacy efforts and recognized the contributions of scholars and writers, notably Professor Ladé Wosornu, whose work she commended for promoting African languages and literature. She stressed that progress in education and cultural development necessitates a greater focus on indigenous languages, particularly at the early stages of learning.

Language, according to her, is more than simply communication; it embodies identity, values, history, and knowledge. The Vice President also urged writers to keep championing Africa's achievements, resilience, and strengths in their works, especially in children's literature. By cultivating confidence, identity, and appreciation for African heritage through positive storytelling, she believed that children's literature could play a crucial role in building strong foundations.

She urged PAWA members to perceive challenges as opportunities for innovation and growth, highlighting the vital role writers have in molding perspectives and advancing the vision of a confident and self-aware Africa.