Nana Aba Anamoah has dispelled the notion that she primarily speaks English and does not engage with speakers of local languages.
The media personality and TV executive spoke to Nana Romeo on Accra 100.5 FM’s midmorning programme, Ayekoo Ayekoo.
“I don’t even like speaking English that much,” Nana Aba revealed. “Speaking plenty of English doesn’t even bring in much money.”
She noted that in her private life and public interactions, it is typical of her to speak a variety of local languages, including “Twi, Fante, Ga, or Ewe – my mom is Ewe.”
The GHOne TV manager lamented instances where admirers hesitated to approach her in public, assuming they would be compelled to speak English, only to text her later via Instagram (IG) direct messages (DM).
“I love local languages; I’m even looking for someone to teach me Hausa,” Nana Aba shared.
She also addressed the perception that she frequently uses complex or unfamiliar English words, which some feel might intimidate others from interacting with her.
According to her, she is simply passionate about “pronunciation and enunciation.”
“Also, because I’ve been doing this for a long time, I’ve trained myself, and that’s what I try to teach others – there’s a way to use language so you don’t sound elementary,” she explained.
She added that it would be unusual for a university graduate’s use of English to be the same as that of a Class 3 pupil.
“There’s a reason you’re investing in your education, after all,” she remarked.
In conclusion, Nana Aba Anamoah emphasized that while her attention to proper English usage may make her seem posh, she is not a snob but rather warm and approachable.
She lightheartedly acknowledged that many others might even be more proficient in the English language than she is.