The Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors (CBOD), Mr Senyo Hosi, has asked members of the Ghana Association of Writers (GAW) to continue to project the country’s culture through literary works.

He noted that legends such as E.T. Mensah, Kojo Antwi had produced classic literary pieces in the form of music and same could be said of many contemporary artistes, hence the need to document their creativity.

Speaking at the 5th GAW Literary Awards held in Accra recently, Mr. Hosi urged the association to ensure the works of these artists were “studied and celebrated to help awaken the consciousness of Ghanaians.”

He further stressed the need for writers to make their works visible on online platforms and e-book stores to attract global audience.

While praising award recipients, he maintained that “our culture is unique therefore writers must continue to highlight the originality of Ghanaians just as they gave preference to stories from other parts of the world.”

Mr Kojo Mattah, former Managing Director of ARB Apex Bank Limited, in his address also urged the youth to deepen reading habits and take interest in the works of Ghanaian authors.

He said reading was a very important aspect of life but poor reading culture was affecting academic performance as some students read only when there had an examination to write.

Mr Francis Gbormittah, President of GAW, also said that the Association was committed to “stimulating literary creativity among writers in Ghana and inspire them to even do better in promoting Ghanaian values.”

A number of local writers were recognised in eight award categories at the event. Dr. Gheysika Adombire Agambila won the first place with his book’ The Shrinking Bowl’ in the Ayi Kwei Armah Novel Category.

Genevieve Delali Antonio’s ‘She Rescues and Other Stories’ topped the Ama Ata Aidoo Short Story category. Reinfred Addo won in the Atukwei Okai poetry section while Ruby Yayra Goka also won in the Efua Sutherland Children’s Story book.

By Yunusah Essandoh