In a groundbreaking effort to promote environmental sustainability and food sovereignty, the Centre for Indigenous Knowledge and Organizational Development (CIKOD), a Ghanaian Non-Governmental Organisation based in the Upper West Region of Ghana, is spearheading a campaign aimed at restoring local food systems. Focused on the consumption of culturally appropriate, nutrient-dense foods, this initiative seeks to transform the way communities in Ghana view and engage with their indigenous food sources.
CIKOD believes that a significant aspect of this transformation lies in educating the youth about the importance of local food. By fostering an appreciation for local cuisines and agro ecological practices from an early age, the organization hopes to ensure the longevity of these values. To this end, CIKOD has launched a school initiative in Wa, the Regional capital of the Upper West Region, where they have selected six schools as pilot programs for their ‘Transforming the African food system to sustainability (tafs) – my food is African campaign’.
The selected institutions for this pilot phase include three private schools: Beverly Hills Academy, Ancilla Basic School, and Dan-Ibu International School; as well as three public schools identified by the Municipal Education Office, including Wa Model Basic School. Each school will receive guidance from a student intern from CIKOD, who will work closely with teachers and students to strengthen their understanding and appreciation of local food systems.
The program is designed to instill pride in local food heritage among students while encouraging them to engage in the ongoing transformation of the African food system. The initiative aims to arm students with knowledge of local food traditions, the health benefits of indigenous foods, and the importance of sustainability within their communities.
At a recent school engagement event at Dan-Ibu International School, Mr. Daniel Faabelangne Banuoku, deputy executive director for CIKOD, underscored the importance of the mission by urging pupils to become ambassadors for the promotion of local food consumption in their homes and communities. "You are the future leaders, and your understanding of local food systems can catalyze significant change in our society," he said passionately.
The Wa Municipal Early Childhood Education Coordinator, Mr. Banuokuu Mwine Kwadwo, also addressed the attendees, expressing heartfelt gratitude to CIKOD for their restorative efforts. He encouraged both teachers and students to become champions of change for indigenous food consumption in the Upper West Region. "Promoting local foods is not just about better nutrition; it is about maintaining our culture and supporting our local farmers," he affirmed.
Among the participants was Miss Issah Taribasung, a Basic 7 pupil at Dan-Ibu International School, who seized the opportunity to express her aspirations after the CIKOD engagement. Inspired by the initiative, she pledged to establish an Indigenous Food Foundation dedicated to promoting the benefits of local foods. "I am really excited to share my passion for local food and its significant impact on health and culture," Miss Taribasung declared. "Local foods are not only nutritious; they are part of our identity. I will work hard to be an ambassador for this cause within my community."
Miss Issah Taribasung
The ‘transforming the African food system to sustainability (tafs) - my food is African campaign’ is focused on several key objectives designed to empower the next generation of food advocates. One of its primary aims is to introduce students to the significance of local food systems and their integral roles in fostering sustainability and health. Additionally, the initiative encourages inter-generational knowledge transfer of traditional recipes, thereby strengthening the relationships between students, their parents, and grandparents.
The campaign also aim to enhance students’ culinary skills through practical experiences, including the preparation and exhibition of local dishes. The modeling of local cuisine promotes community engagement and celebrates the diversity that local foods contribute to the culture of the Upper West Region and Ghana as a whole.
As CIKOD continues to usher in a new era of food consciousness among Ghana’s youth, their commitment to supporting local food systems becomes increasingly vital. By focusing on education, culture, and community involvement, CIKOD is not only empowering young minds but also reinforcing the very fabric of Ghanaian society through its deep-rooted culinary traditions.
The effects of such initiatives extend beyond current generations, impacting future societies and shaping the future of food sovereignty in Ghana. Programs like the TAFS – MY FOOD IS AFRICAN CAMPAIGN represent strides toward a sustainable and culturally relevant food system that respects the land while nourishing its people.
As local food consumption rises, so does the awareness of its potential to support environmental conservation, health, and economic stability.
The work done by CIKOD sets an inspiring precedent for other regions to consider similar educational approaches, ensuring that local food systems remain vibrant and preserved for generations to come.
With the undeniable enthusiasm shown by students like Miss Taribasung and the guidance provided through the TAFS campaign, it is clear that the future of local foods in Ghana may very well lie in the hands of its youth — health-conscious, culture-driven minds ready to usher in a transformation in the local food narrative, grounded in sustainability and community engagement. As this initiative unfolds, it may inspire others across Africa to similarly re-embrace their culinary heritage, fostering a continent-wide movement toward food systems that are not only sustainable but rich in cultural significance.
A cross-section of Students of Dan-Ibu International School - Wa
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