By David Amoateng, Amansie East
In a bid to foster healthier dietary habits among Ghanaians, the Queen Mother of Senfi_Adumasa, Nana Adeasa Dwene Afisem Antwiwaa II, has advocated for the cultivation of backyard gardens. Addressing attendees at the Asante Food Festival, coinciding with the celebration of Asantehene’s 25 Silver Jubilee at Senfi-Adumasa Palace in the Amansie East Municipality of Ashanti, Nana Adeasa Dwene Afisem Antwiwaa II emphasized the importance of reverting to traditional, locally grown foods.
“It is imperative for Ghanaian women to embrace the practice of backyard gardening to mitigate the consumption of foreign dishes laden with spices and devoid of nutritional value,” stated Nana Adeasa Dwene Afisem Antwiwaa II.
Expressing concern over the prevalence of unhealthy eating habits among Ghanaian youth, she remarked, “The consumption of colored food bottles, processed flours, and sausage products devoid of natural leaves and vegetables is alarming and poses a threat to our future food security.”
Highlighting the adverse health effects associated with the consumption of continental dishes, Nana Antwiwaa II cited illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and cancer as rampant in Ghanaian society. She urged Ghanaians to prioritize traditional foods such as “apeprensa, Nnehuo, eto, palm oil,” emphasizing their nutritional benefits.
Supporting Nana Antwiwaa II’s stance, Nana Amankwa Kodom Ababio, the Chief of Senfi-Adumasa, underscored the importance of parental guidance in promoting healthy eating habits among the youth.
“It is crucial for parents and guardians to educate the younger generation on the significance of consuming locally sourced foods prepared at home,” remarked Nana Kodom Ababio.
In addition to advocating for healthier dietary practices, Nana Kodom Ababio called upon politicians to exercise restraint in their rhetoric during the upcoming December 7 general elections. “Politicians must be mindful of their words and focus on delivering tangible benefits to the electorate,” advised Nana Kodom Ababio.
He urged voters to exercise their franchise peacefully to ensure a peaceful electoral process characterized by tranquility and harmony.