We must prioritize our cultural heritage to drive development – Archaeologist

Professor Rachel Ama Engmann, a respected archaeologist of Ghanaian-Osu descent, has underscored the profound significance of art, painting, and photography in preserving and safeguarding cultural heritage across nations.

In her view, the domains of art, painting, and photography remain potent instruments capable of capturing moments, history, and heritage, thereby providing inspiration to future generations.

She emphasized that safeguarding a nation’s cultural heritage stands as a fundamental pillar for fostering unity within the country, enhancing national cohesion, and invigorating the collective spirit to drive socio-economic progress.

In a notable initiative, the Christiansburg Archaeological Heritage Project (CAHP) embarked on a mission to embellish houses’ walls in Osu, Accra, with artistic paintings.

Professor Ama Asaa Engmann, the driving force behind CAHP, noted in an interview that the project is a collaborative endeavour with the Osu community

In a recent expansion, the project received a grant from the Mellon Foundation in New York, enabling them to merge heritage, history, and art initiatives

She appealed for financial backing to replicate the project in various regions of Ghana, thereby enriching the nation’s heritage and promoting tourism and economic growth.