In a momentous and historic ceremony held on February 1, 2024, at the National Commission on Culture offices, Babykaafo, initiators of the groundbreaking Spelling G Competition, officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the esteemed National Commission on Culture, Ghana.
The key figures present at the signing ceremony included Joseph Narnor, CEO and Founder of Babykaafo, and Dr. Romeo Hussey, Lead Medical Consultant at Babykaafo, representing the organization.
On the side of the National Commission on Culture, key representatives included the Executive Director-Nana Otuo Owoahene Acheampong, the Deputy Executive Director-Dr. Fio Richardson Commey, the Director, HR-Mrs. Harriet Kumi-Boateng and the Senior Budget Office-Mr. Kingsley Gyiru.
The primary objectives of the MOU are to promote the Babykaafo Spelling G Competition, accentuate the significance of indigenous languages in educational and cultural contexts across Ghana, etc.
The Babykaafo Spelling G Competition addresses the diminishing significance of indigenous languages in Ghana. With over 80 spoken languages, English remains dominant in schools, leading to a decline in emphasis on local languages. The competition aims to rejuvenate interest, emphasizing linguistic heritage and cognitive development.
The competition will be aired on major television stations, community radio, and digital platforms, reaching over five million Ghanaians within two years. It spans various levels, including school, community, industry-specific, and general public competitions, with a nationwide presence.
The initiative contributes to national development, unity, and improved academic performance. It bridges the urban-rural divide, preserving identity, fostering socioeconomic inclusivity, and encouraging digital inclusion.
About Babykaafo: Established in 2017, Babykaafo is a social enterprise committed to preventing maternal and child deaths by providing timely information in a language mothers understand.
About the National Commission on Culture: The National Commission on Culture is a Constitutionally mandated institution under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, charged with implementing Ghana's culture policy. The Commission plays a pivotal role in preserving the nation's rich cultural heritage.