By Kamal Ahmed
Somanya(E/R), April. 11, GNA – A new cultural festival, Wa Ya Dorm, meaning _ “We are going home” _ in Krobo dialect, has been launched in Somanya in the Eastern Region under the auspices of the Yilo Krobo Traditional Council.
The festival seeks to foster unity and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Krobo people. It revives an ancestral tradition once observed during Easter but later replaced by the Kloyosikplemi Festival, which is celebrated at the end of the year.
Speaking at the launch, Paramount Chief Oklepeme Nuer Anorbah Sasraku II, explained that Wa Ya Dorm was historically a way for the Krobo forefathers to express grief and commemorate their suffering under colonial rule, particularly during British occupation.
He noted that its revival aligned with his ascension to the throne and his commitment to reconnecting the younger generation with their ancestral roots.
He stated that Wa Ya Dorm will not replace Kloyosikplemi but rather complement it, serving as a historic and cultural reflection during Easter.
The festival will be celebrated annually, featuring a vibrant procession through Somanya with traditional drumming, dancing, and cultural displays.
Participants will make their way to Krobo Mountain, a site of historical significance for the Krobo people.
This first edition of Wa Ya Dorm has been described by Chief Sasraku II as a time for reflection, remembrance, and unity.
According to the traditional council, the festival will involve all six divisions of Yilo Krobo—Bornya, Plau, Bunase, Okper, Nyewer, and Ogomeh—alongside activities such as food bazaars, entertainment, masquerading, and performances by traditional dancers and musicians.
To honour the struggles and sacrifices of their ancestors, Easter Saturday will see a temporary shutdown of all shops, businesses, and public transport, including tricycles.
The day will be dedicated to solemn reflection, reinforcing unity and a renewed commitment to development.
Chief Sasraku II’s vision for Wa Ya Dorm is expected to boost cultural preservation while strengthening pride and identity among the Yilo Krobo people.
As participation grows in the coming years, the festival will serve as a cornerstone for Krobo history and heritage, marking a new chapter in celebrating the community’s resilience.
GNA
DL/KOA