People & Lifestyle
Of Historical Fallacies and Errors: A Rejoinder to Daily Graphic Report “Kumasi Zoo Reopens”
As a member of the Royal Society of Asante History and Culture (ROSACH), I read to an utter shock a news bulletin written by one Daniel Kenu, entitled “Kumasi Zoo Reopens” published on March 08, 2021 at www.graphic.com.gh, and widely circulated by other media outlets. With the Daily Graphic news outlet having gained a longstanding reputation as a credible source of information and referencing for historians, anthropologists, researchers and other professionals, it is pertinent for me to set the records straight on the various historical inaccuracies that got featured in the said news bulletin.
Fallacies and Errors
The fundamental errors particularly claimed that the Kumasi Zoo was “established in 1957 as the country’s premier national zoo and officially commissioned by President Kwame Nkrumah on October 11, 1958…”.
I must categorically point out that the available documented facts and time-tested oral literature renders Mr. Kenu’s claim a fundamental error. Obviously, I am inclined to believe Mr. Kenu got misinformed by his sources of information, hence the need for this instant rejoinder.
The Facts
The Kumasi Zoological Gardens was established in 1951 by Dr. Alexander Atta Yaw Kyerematen (1916-1976), the father of the current Minister of Trade and Industry, Hon., John Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen (Alan Cash). Contrary to popular belief and claims, the Kumasi Zoo was officially opened to the public in 1957 by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Sir Osei Agyeman Prempeh II, and not Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the former President of Ghana, as purported in the Graphic publication.
Indeed, the Kumasi Zoological Gardens, being the first of its kind in Ghana, was a component of several facilities of the original multi-purpose Ashanti Cultural Centre which later became known as Ghana National Cultural Centre and Centre for National Culture, Kumasi. Apart from the zoo, other facilities within the Centre included a Museum, Archival Centre, Ashanti Library, Theatres, rehearsal arenas for traditional music, dance and drama groups. All these facilities are still extant.
It was through the tireless efforts of Dr. A. A. Y. Kyerematen’s that the Asanteman Council, acting through the Asantehene, Otumfuo Sir Osei Agyeman Prempeh II, graciously granted the massive land at the present-day Kumasi Cultural Centre; and their sitting allowances on that same day for the cultural centre project to kick-start.
It was however in 1963, that Dr. Kwame Nkrumah while embarking on a national assignment to Tamale, made a detour to the Ashanti Cultural Centre to witness the activities of the Ashanti Cultural Centre for the first time. It was following his favourable observation of the project and its cultural relevance, that resulted in the nationalization and renaming of the facility into Ghana National Cultural Centre.
Noting the significance of the Centre, the PNDC Government policy framework of decentralization, under the hegemony of Flt. Lt. J.J Rawlings in 1990, changed the name once again to Centre for National Culture, Kumasi. This ensured that all the remaining regions of the Republic of Ghana had a replica of “Ashanti Cultural Centre”.
The Kumasi Zoo was envisioned to be the centre for cultural preservation and education for all manner of persons. As indicated by Mr. Jacob Oti Awere, the former Ashanti Regional Manager of the then Ghana Tourist Board, the Kumasi Zoo gave deep meaning to the importance of folklore and storytelling. In folktales, it was depicted that the Asante world is anthropomorphic – we live with animals who also talk, eat, marry and have children like we humans do.
Dr. Kyerematen encouraged the art of storytelling to children. Patrons to the Cultural Centre were often entreated to allow the children to visit the zoo so as to have a natural view of primates, bats, birds, reptiles, tiger, ostrich, among others that featured in the stories. Besides, the animals were also to enhance the socio-cultural life of Asantes. Others went to the zoo to get themselves familiarized with the totemic animals for spiritual inspiration.
In a country where heroes have to be celebrated, it ought to be forcefully stated that the legacy of Dr. Alexander Atta Yaw Kyerematen is worthy of celebration, and not undermined in any form. Moreover, the role of the Asanteman Council towards the establishment of the zoo should also be kept sacred for the sake of posterity.
I am hopeful that the Daily Graphic and its reporter Mr. Daniel Kenu will effect the necessary corrections, in fairness to the historical facts narrated in this article.
Written by
Emmanuel Jewel Peprah Mensah
Creative Arts Director, writer and researcher
He is a member of Royal Society of Asante History and Culture
Email: ej.peprahmnesah@gmail.com
People & Lifestyle
Mr. Beast in Ghana: Surprising Visit Sparks Excitement
World-renowned YouTuber Mr. Beast, known for his philanthropic acts, has been spotted in Ghana, specifically in Accra and Tema, sparking excitement among locals.
Wow, Mr Beast is in Ghana! Look at how boys are gathering to take pictures with him. pic.twitter.com/46gawXYWnJ
— Big Kay🇬🇭 (@OfficialBigkay) April 26, 2024
His visit has led to discussions about his choice of Ghana over other African countries, with some suggesting that the country’s popularity as a tourist destination played a role.
MrBeast is in Ghana and no one is talking about it? Make I step out more times I go get new phone or car saf pic.twitter.com/AUP9CSoDoV
— Kofi Ntim (@NtimBarima) April 26, 2024
Mr. Beast’s presence in Ghana is part of his global outreach, as he recently gifted a Ghanaian $25,000 as part of his X (Twitter) giveaway.
Read Also: Producers of 'Beast of No Nation' return to filming in Ghana, causing upset in parliament
The YouTuber has been seen exploring the country and interacting with locals, with many expressing their desire to meet him and participate in his charitable endeavors.
People & Lifestyle
Stephen Appiah to contest John Dumelo and Lydia Alhassan in MP race for Ayawaso West Wuogon
Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah is set to enter the political fray by rubbing shoulders with notable personalities in the upcoming general elections.
The former Juventus midfielder is believed to be lacing his boots to face the likes of John Dumelo and the incumbent member of Parliament for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency Lydia Alhassan.
While Dumelo and Alhassan represents the NDC and NPP respectively, Appiah is expected feature in the elections as an independent candidate.
This was revealed by the Spokesperson of the Ayew family Fiifi Tackie via X on Friday afternoon.
“Stephen Appiah to contest Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency as an independent Parliamentary candidate,” he wrote.
If Stephen Appiah affirms the reported news, he will be following in the footsteps of other renowned figures in Ghana football who have indulged in politics recently.
Earlier this year, all-time top scorer of the Black Stars Asamoah Gyan was appointed as the sub-committee chair of Youth and Sports in the campaign committee of Dr Bawumia, the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party.
In acceptance of the appointment, Gyan emphasised the need to share hos ideas garnered through experience in the game.
Anas took $100,000 to stop documentary release – Kwesi Nyantakyi
‘I have enough experience to contribute to sports – Asamoah Gyan reacts to political appointment
“I always ask myself, how do we create change if we don’t want to change? How do we spectate without being on the bench, and how do we score without being on the field?… All I know and will ever know, all I love and will ever love is SPORTS.” he stated.
Another figure in Ghana football who recently announced his intention to engage in partisan politics is Kwesi Nyantakyi, former Ghana Football Association (GFA).
The former football administrator showed up as one of the candidates to contest in the NPP primaries for the Ejisu constituency following the demise of incumbent John Kumah.
However, it didn’t pan out well for the former Wa All Stars owner as he lost disappointingly.
He garnered a paltry 35 votes after close to 1,081 delegates had cast their votes in the parliamentary primary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) held in the Ejisu Constituency on April 13.
People & Lifestyle
Rebecca Osam: A Champion for Women’s Empowerment in Africa
In a heartfelt social media post, Rebecca Osam, Managing Director of Reflo Company Limited, Reflo’s TV, and Femme Fatale Productions Limited, has pledged her full commitment to empowering young women.
Rebecca expressed her desire to move beyond mere inspiration and instead build a deeper connection with young women, offering guidance and support to help them achieve their goals.
Her passion for women’s empowerment stems from her experiences growing up in Africa, where she witnessed firsthand the oppression and lack of opportunities faced by women. This drove her to co-found The Florence Mensah Foundation with her mother, aiming to empower African women and girls, and encourage them to recognise their worth, strength, and potential.
Through her foundation and personal endeavors, Rebecca seeks to provide a supportive platform for young women to thrive. She aims to be a relatable figure, offering mentorship and encouragement to help them overcome challenges and achieve success on their own terms.
Rebecca’s dedication to empowering young women proves her leadership and commitment to creating positive change in her community. Her efforts serve as an inspiration to others, highlighting the impact one person can have in driving gender equality and women’s empowerment.
As Rebecca continues her work, her message resonates with young women across Africa: “Anything is possible, and I am here to support and cheer you on every step of the way.”
People & Lifestyle
Caradise Ghana Car Rental Facilitates Transportation for Global Christian Forum held in Accra
Caradise Ghana Car Rental has once again successfully facilitated the transportation of over 240 participants from 60 countries across the globe for the recently ended Global Christian Forum in Accra, Ghana.
Numerous buses hauled the various participants from the Airport to their designated hotels from the 12th to 15th of April, 2024. Participants were then transported from their hotels to the conference grounds daily for the gathering of devoted Christians from the 16th to the 19th of April, 2024.
The forum began with a vibrant, joyful worship service held at Accra Ridge Church. The Rev. Dr. Casely Essamuah welcomed participants to Ghana and to the Fourth Global Gathering, and participants spent the day sharing their faith stories with one another across the litany of differences represented.
The forum was climaxed with a dinner and 25th anniversary celebration at the Action Chapel Internation Church hosted by Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams.
After the forum, the participants took the opportunity to visit the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum where they learnt about the great Pan-Africanist, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and Ghana’s journey to inpendence.
The participants also spent a day in Cape Coast where they learnt about the millions of enslaved, dehumanised African men, women, and children at the Cape Coast Castle. Witnessing first hand how Africans were forcibly taken captive to the Americas, Caribbean, and Europe as objects of lucrative trade.
People & Lifestyle
DJ Khaled Announces Second Annual We The Best Foundation Golf Classic On June 12 & 13 in Miami Beach !
GRAMMY® Award-winning, global megastar DJ Khaled proudly announces the return of his annual WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC for the second year in a row.
For 2024, the mega-popular charity event expands to two days on Wednesday June 12 and Thursday June 13 in Miami, FL. Given the demand by countless superstar artists, A-list athletes, and entertainers to participate, he needed to stretch the proceedings over two days!
Once again, the event will be sponsored by Jordan Brand, and all proceeds support the We The Best Foundationand its numerous efforts to bolster education. Stay tuned for the multitude of exciting confirmed guests, and more.
Khaled created a cultural groundswell and personally appeared on ESPN’s SPORTSCENTER to break the news of the second installment of the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC today. Watch HERE.
Regarding the return of the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC, he commented, “Last year, the WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC brought out so many friends and family to make a difference, play some great golf, and have an incredible day for a great cause. This year, we’re going even bigger, and we thank everyone for their continued support. TEE UP AND BLESS UP!”
Last year, the inaugural WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC hosted Serena Williams, pro golfers Michael Block and Bubba Watson, Odell Beckham, JR., Shannon Sharpe, Victor Cruz, Jalen Rose, Terrell Owens, Marcus Jordan, Jeezy, Quavo, The-Dream, Swizz Beatz, Timbaland, Fat Joe, Cedric The Entertainer, Joey Fatone, and more. The foundation raised over $500,000 which benefited the enrichment of children and youth through educational programming, scholarships, and extracurricular activities.
More guests and partners for 2024 will be unveiled soon.
People & Lifestyle
Ghanaian activist hugs over 1,100 trees in an hour to set record
An environmental activist and forestry student from Ghana has set a new world record for the most trees hugged in one hour. (more…)
- Buzz1 week ago
My wife sent her nudes to her Dubai lover while I was on my sick bed – Erico speaks on divorce
- Buzz1 week ago
Afronita’s mum was against me managing Endurance Grand alongside her daughter – Quables
- Buzz2 days ago
I underestimated the extent of my influence – Serwaa Amihere apologizes
- Buzz1 week ago
Stonebwoy performs ‘Activate’ with Davido at sold-out Madison Square Garden show
- People & Lifestyle5 days ago
REPORT: Dulcie Boateng’s Porials Pitch leads to arrests over ‘unregistered products’
- Gossip6 days ago
WATCH: Irene Logan sings ‘At Last’ as she dances with her husband at their wedding reception
- Buzz1 week ago
Ghana’s New Train from Poland Crashes During Test Run
- Buzz4 days ago
Kofi Kinaata Credits Samini’s High Grade Family for Musical Breakthrough
- Buzz2 days ago
Why single mothers struggle to find partners – Joselyn Dumas
- World News3 days ago
Kanye West reportedly planning to launch porn studio
- Buzz1 week ago
“Life has humbled me so much” – Mercy Johnson
- Gossip5 days ago
Gospel singer KODA passes on, after reportedly battling a kidney disease