Pognnaa Salma Chaana Abdul-Razak is the youngest Paramount queenmother in Upper West Region
The Sing Traditional Area in the Upper West Region has celebrated a historic milestone as Pognnaa Salma Chaana Abdul-Razak, the youngest Paramount Queenmother alive, marked 10 years on the throne.
Her decade-long reign has been defined by resilience, cultural advocacy, and a renewed call for the preservation of Ghana’s indigenous values.
Ascending the throne at a remarkably young age, Pognnaa Salma described her journey as “nothing but grace, blessings, and hard times.” She noted that perseverance and dedication during difficult moments strengthened her resolve to serve her people purposefully.
Over the past decade, the Queenmother has distinguished herself as a custodian of tradition and a passionate advocate for cultural revival. She has championed initiatives focused on indigenous food systems, preventive health, and the transfer of inter-generational knowledge.
Speaking on the significance of the milestone, Pognnaa Salma emphasized the importance of safeguarding Ghanaian culture through everyday practices, particularly traditional meals.
“This reign is a reminder that we, as Ghanaians, must return to our indigenous meals as staple foods, not only for their health benefits but because food is culture,” she said.
She cautioned against the gradual erosion of cultural practices, urging parents and guardians to ensure future generations remain connected to their heritage. Among the indigenous delicacies she highlighted were Dawadawa jollof, Tumpaani, Sawu (TZ) with johjoh soup, Jangjahga, kongtong soup, Gabele, Wasawasa, Kaaha, Maasa, and Kaara, encouraging Ghanaians to embrace local foods proudly.
Beyond cultural preservation, the Queenmother also advocated for a shift in national health priorities from curative to preventive care.
“We must invest more in prevention. Eat your food as medicine and not your medicine as food. You are indeed what you eat,” she stressed.
The anniversary has been met with tributes acknowledging Pognnaa Salma’s impact as a symbol of youthful traditional authority, cultural pride, and progressive indigenous leadership.
Source:
www.ghanaweb.com
