Elmina, (C/R), May 23, GNA - The Omanhene of the Edina Traditional Area, Nana Kodwo Condua VI, on Monday echoed calls for African writers to ensure that their writings and literary works change the negative perceptions about Africa.

He stressed that "many goods things, in the areas of socio-economic, political, religious and cultural development", had taken place in Africa, but little have been said about them, giving room for Africa to be still described as a "dark continent with little civilization".

Nana Condua, made the call during an 'akwaaba' ceremony for members of the African Literature Association (ALA) at Elmina in the Central Region, as part of activities of the just-ended 32nd annual conference of the association be in Accra. Libation was offered and a local traditional dish, of mashed yam with boiled eggs was served the members of ALA at the Elmina castle, to officially welcome them back home to their roots, during the ceremony organized by the traditional council and the Centre for National Culture (CNC).

The Omanhene pointed out that the time had come for Africans to tell their own story and not depend on the perceptions of others. Nana Condua thanked the group for tracing their roots to Ghana and urged them to bring their expertise to bear on the development of literary works in the country to enhance the development of African literature.

He expressed the hope that the outcome of the conference, would reflect in their works and that it would not be allowed to be just another "talk show" as was common with conferences. In their messages, some of the members from the United States of America, and South Africa, expressed their happiness to be back home and stressed that they would continue to champion and shape the future of the African people, as well as to support Africa in its struggle for liberation.

The members later toured the Cape Coast and Elmina castles.