As Christmas approaches, Ghanaians are divided over whether they would prefer receiving money or physical gifts during the festive season.
While some say cash gives them the freedom to buy items according to their needs and preferences, others believe physical presents carry sentimental value and serve as lasting reminders of the people who give them.
In street interviews, Joyce Brobbey said she would rather receive money because it gives her the flexibility to decide what she needs or wants.
“I would rather receive the money because, you know, it actually gives me the freedom and then the flexibility to choose what I genuinely need or want,” she said.
Samuel Kumah, however, preferred a physical gift, arguing that money could easily be spent while a present could serve as a lasting reminder of the giver.
“Packaging gift because the money I can use it, it will finish, and the gift now, I’ll remember the person through that gift and it can be there for a long period,” he said.
Joel Asante also favoured physical presents, explaining that they could evoke memories whenever the recipient sees or uses them.
“I would choose the gifts because gifts [are] something like anytime I’ll use my eyes to see, I’ll remember the person,” he said.
For Ernestina Appiah, money remains the better option because a physical gift might not match the recipient’s taste or immediate needs.
“So for me, I’ll go for the money because maybe the gift that the person will get for me, you know, it’s not be something that I like or I want at the moment,” she said.
The responses highlight the different considerations people make when choosing between cash and physical presents. While some prioritise convenience and personal choice, others value the memories and emotional connection associated with receiving a gift.
As the festive season draws closer, the choice between money and physical presents remains a matter of personal preference for those taking part in the season of giving.