Stories and facts

The National Folklore Board (NFB) of Ghana is a key cultural institution tasked with preserving, protecting, and promoting the nation’s folklore and traditional heritage. Established under the Copyright Act of 2005, the Board manages Ghana’s folklore on behalf of the state, ensuring that cultural expressions such as folktales, traditional songs, proverbs, dances, crafts, and artistic designs are safeguarded for future generations.

Through its work, the NFB plays an essential role in keeping Ghana’s rich and diverse cultural traditions relevant in a rapidly changing world.

A core responsibility of the National Folklore Board is to curate and register expressions of folklore, particularly regulating their use in commercial contexts.

For instance, companies wishing to use Adinkra symbols, stories of Kweku Ananse, or iconic Kente designs in products must obtain permission from the Board.

This protects local communities from exploitation and ensures the intellectual property rights of indigenous groups are respected, providing a framework for cultural sustainability.

Beyond regulation, the NFB actively promotes education and public awareness of Ghanaian folklore both locally and internationally.

Initiatives such as the “Know Your Folklore” campaign and the introduction of folklore clubs in schools work to instil appreciation of cultural heritage among younger generations. The Board also celebrates World Folklore Day annually with storytelling events, exhibitions, and cultural performances.

In recent years, it has embraced digitisation, collaborating with partners to make folklore more accessible on digital platforms, thereby reaching wider and more diverse audiences.

The impact of the National Folklore Board resonates deeply across society. By preserving folklore, the Board strengthens national identity and contributes to cultural tourism, the creative industries, and community pride.

Ghanaian folklore serves not only as a source of moral teaching and entertainment but also plays a vital role in nation-building. As globalisation brings new challenges, the NFB remains the guardian of Ghana’s cultural soul, ensuring that the stories, art, and traditions that define the nation continue to thrive for generations to come.

Explore various government agencies in Ghana below: