Mohammed Kudus. Image Credit: @GhanaBlackstars on X
The Black Stars’ social media team welcomed Mohammed Kudus, popularly known as Starboy Kudus, with greetings in three Ghanaian languages — Akwaaba (Akan), Woezɔ (Ewe) and Oobakɛ (Ga).
The gesture, shared online, has drawn praises from fans who described it as fun, creative, and reflective of Ghana’s cultural diversity. Many saw it as a warm way of celebrating Kudus’ return to the national team camp.
But the choice of words also comes at a time when debates about language representation remain fresh in the public space. The recently refurbished Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Museum in Accra attracted criticism for sidelining Ga in its official signage and information materials, despite the museum being located in the heart of the Ga State. Cultural advocates condemned the move as a clear neglect of the capital’s indigenous language.
The matter is not new. At Kotoka International Airport, the prominence of the Akan word Akwaaba has long been contested by sections of the Ga-Dangbe community, who argue that Oobakɛ should instead be given prominence. According to them, the airport sits on Ga land, and as the main entry point into Ghana, its language of welcome should reflect the heritage of the people of Accra. The debate has sparked countless discussions about identity, unity, and the politics of language in national spaces.
By including Oobakɛ alongside Akwaaba and Woezɔ, the Black Stars admin has, whether intentionally or not, touched on one of the most sensitive cultural issues in the country at the moment. While some see it simply as a playful welcome to a fan-favorite footballer, others believe it sends a subtle reminder of the need to respect all Ghanaian languages and identities in equal measure.
For now, the spotlight remains on Kudus, whose return has lifted spirits among supporters. But the Black Stars’ social media post has also reignited conversations that go beyond football. It’s about language, ownership, and how Ghana chooses to present itself to the world.
Editor: Ama Gyesiwaa Quansah
