ArchiAfrika-April-Magazine-English-final-v2

preserving
ACCRA’S architectural heritage
This event featured the Children’s Library as a backdrop to initiate the
dialogue on the need for preservation, restoration and not erasure. This
important iconic building is a powerful symbol of Ghana’s modernist
contextual tradition. However due to neglect, the building is in desperate
need of restoration.
Hosting the event at the Children’s Library initiated much needed
discourse on why and how we can build on our past as we look to the
future in all aspect of our lives. The panelists included Nat Amarteifio
(Architectural historian, Write & former Mayor of Accra), Senam
Okudzeto (Artist, Writer & Scholar) and Osei Agyeman (Former
President of the Ghana Institute of Architects). The discussion was
moderated by Joe Osae-Addo
The event has brought to light the need for heritage policies, as currently
there is a wholesale destruction of historical buildings. The discussion
involved how people can be encouraged to identify heritage buildings
(outside of the typical forts and castles) and adopt policies to protect them.
In light of this discussion on the city and its history, the event will also
marked the opening of an exhibition featuring the photographs of the city
taken by school children from 10 different areas of Accra. This exhibition
provided the perfect backdrop for what proved to be an interesting
discussion about the city, its history, heritage, preservation and restoration.
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