How Ghanaian Millennials Are Reconnecting with Traditional Foods

892

---

KEY POINTS

---

• Ghanaian millennials are rediscovering traditional foods through festivals and culinary innovation.
• Entrepreneurs and chefs are modernizing traditional dishes to appeal to younger audiences.
• Social media and dining experiences are promoting traditional Ghanaian cuisine globally.

---

The millennials as a group of people whose ages range from 1981 to 1996 desire to balance tradition with modernity. Also, they value authenticity but often seek to reimagine it in ways that align with their contemporary lifestyles.

Millennials in Ghana especially in the recent past, have especially been very energetic in the try and use of traditional foods. Such movement is visible throughout different measures and patterns identified.

Food, creativity and celebration

In this cultural revival, food fairs have assumed central stage. The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology organised the 6th Edition of Food Festival in February 2024, which focused of rejuvenating traditional foods.

One of the interviewed experts, the food scientist, Dr. Mavis Owureku-Asare underlined the necessity of improvement of traditional recipes using the methods of modernity to attract younger generations.

Furthermore, she stated, “By blending traditional recipes with contemporary techniques and ingredients, we can rejuvenate our cuisine and introduce it to broader audiences.”

Emphasis on cultural heritage

Well aware of the dangers of culture dilution in the era of new technologies, attempts have been made to preserve the culinary culture of Ghana.

September last year, the Greater Accra Regional Director of the Centre for National Culture, Eric Ohene-Larbi called on Ghanaians to embrace traditional foods as a way of maintaining the culture.

Additionally, he pointed out that through food, culture can be passed on through generations, as he said, “In today’s digital and modern era, it is more important than ever to preserve our cultural traditions.”

Entrepreneurial ventures and dining experiences

The Millennials are also into business which focuses on promoting the traditional way of cooking. For instance, private chef Phyllis Ny started a supper club called “Asanka” meaning a clay pot used in Ghana.

In addition, she recreates African hall parties in her events: promoting togetherness in shared meals comprising jollof rice and plantain croquettes.

Ny exposes the communal aspect of the Ghanaian dining practices in her mannerism.

Adaptation of traditional foods to modern usage

Such unique cuisines are gradually making their way to the new generation dining cultures.

Kwaku Yaro, an artist, endorses the Crossover in Accra, where dishes offered range from their local Ghanaian delicacies, such as Banku with Grilled Tilapia. This indicates a trend of traditional foods being appreciated in modern urban settings.

Educational initiatives and media influence

In this resurgence, educational programs and media have provided their shares as well.

Shows like ‘’ Women Who Travel’’ have had Ghanaian chefs like Selassie Atadika who is determined to bring ‘’new African cuisine’’ by associating African ingredients to future food sustainability.

Atadika supports the consumption of local grains such as millet and sorghum as it supports heritage and healthy plant-based diets.

Conclusion

Integration of the traditional cooking style by Ghanaian millennials shows a general population push towards cultural heritage in the face of modernity.

Continuing these practices, traditional Ghanaian dishes are gradually returned to the modern generation through festivals, various successful business initiatives, and education.