INDIGENOUS BELIEFS AND PRACTICES IN ECOSYSTEM CONSERVATION: RESPONSE OF THE CHURCH

Abstract

The Akan people of Ghana's beliefs and practices, enforced by taboos regarding ecosystem conservation, foster a sustainable use of the environment. Akan beliefs and practices highlight their moral import, are crucial in preserving the environment, and protect water sources, the natural vegetation and wildlife and endangered nonhuman species. However, the church has not taken the indigenous beliefs, practices and taboos seriously. The decline of these has led to the degradation of the Ghanaian environment. This article aims at drawing the church's attention by arguing that the indigenous beliefs and practices are more earth-friendly and consistent with biodiversity than modern or Western ways of life and that they represent the best chance for successful ecological practices that enhance ecosystem conservation.