Adaklu Kodzobi (V/R), Jan. 20, GNA - Four communities in the Adaklu Traditional Area have banned bare-buttocks trousers (Otto Pfister) by boys and "I am aware" by girls in their communities. The communities are Kodzobi, Vodze, Have and Dzakpo. Togbe Dzegblade IV, Chief of Kodzobi and spokesman for the four communities, announced the measure at a meeting of chiefs, opinion leaders, representatives of youth groups and religious bodies to discuss their development strategies.

He warned of severe punishment for anybody who would disregard the ban.

Togbe Dzegblade said as custodians of the land chiefs should not stay aloof when the cultural values and decency of the land was being sacrificed for dangerous foreign cultures. He said it was against Ghanaian cultural values to see the youth roaming the streets almost naked in the name of modernity and fashion. "Our way of dressing is part of our culture which is unique and shows our true identity," he said.

Togbe Dzegblade said the flora and fauna of the area were being destroyed by bush fires and cautioned those who have formed the habit of starting bush fires in the area that they would be handed over the law enforcement agencies.

He said a number of development projects including a clinic, a tertiary institution, extension of electricity and water to the communities and the road network in the area would be undertaken.