Harnessing Ewe Storytelling: A Pathway to Sustainable Environmental Practices in Ghana’s Volta Region

Abstract

Indigenous storytelling has long served as a medium for transmitting cultural values and environmental knowledge in many Ghanaian communities. This study examines how Ewe storytelling functions as a pathway to sustainable environmental practices in the Volta Region, with particular focus on Ho, Adaklu and Abutia. The study responds to concerns that formal environmental education and policy approaches often overlook indigenous knowledge systems that continue to shape everyday environmental behaviour. Guided by indigenous ecological knowledge theory and a culturally grounded conceptual framework, the study adopted a mixed methods design. Data were collected from three hundred and fifty (350) respondents using structured questionnaires. The analyses focused on participation in storytelling, exposure to ecological narratives, perceived influence on environmental practices, and challenges affecting storytelling transmission. The findings indicate that storytelling remains a widely practised cultural activity, with elders serving as the primary storytellers. Many respondents reported exposure to stories containing ecological themes related to water protection, forest conservation, avoidance of harmful practices and respect for sacred sites. Storytelling was perceived to influence environmental attitudes and behaviour, particularly in relation to culturally significant spaces. Major barriers identified include youth disinterest, media influence and the declining number of elders engaged in storytelling. The study concludes that Ewe storytelling remains a valuable repository of ecological knowledge and a culturally grounded mechanism for environmental stewardship. However, its sustainability depends on deliberate support through community initiatives and educational integration. Future research is recommended to explore youth engagement with storytelling and the potential of digital platforms to support indigenous ecological knowledge transmission.