By Opesika Tetteh Puplampu
Big Ada, June 15, GNA-The Ada Traditional Council (ATC) has warned businesses, individuals, and traders against engaging in unauthorised or “ambush marketing” during this year’s Asafotufiami Festival.
The Council stressed that the Asafotufiami brand must not be exploited without approval, cautioning that any attempt to use the festival for personal or commercial gain without official endorsement would be met with swift action.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) at Big Ada, Asafoatsengua Gadugah Osraman VI, of the Dangmebiawer Clan and member of the council, said the Council and the Ada Asafotufiami Planning Committee would not tolerate any form of unapproved marketing activities during the festival.
He lamented that past celebrations had been plagued by marketers and companies who profited from the festival without contributing to its planning or objectives.
“Let me issue a clear and firm warning; while we embrace authentic partnerships that uplift our community and respect our heritage, unauthorised use of the Asafotufiami brand or ambush marketing will not be tolerated,” he stated, adding that “Only officially sanctioned partners may align their brands with this sacred festival. Let no one mistake our hospitality for weakness. You have been warned.”
Naana Adiki Manyeyo Adi I, Queen of the Royal Adibiawer Clan and President of the Ada Queen Mothers Consortium, also emphasised the financial strain the festival often places on the Council.
She explained that contrary to public belief, the festival had rarely generated profit, noting that “despite the many businesses that parade their goods and services during the celebrations, only a handful go through the proper channels to contribute to the event.
This creates a false impression that the Traditional Council makes substantial gains from the festival, which is far from the truth.”
She also disclosed that the Ada Traditional Council, in collaboration with the Ada East and Ada West District Assemblies and the relevant security agencies, has resolved to arrest and prosecute anyone found violating the new directive.
The 88th Asafotufiami Festival, officially launched on Friday, June 13, is scheduled to take place from July 31 to August 8, 2025, at Big Ada.
The festival is one of Ghana’s most iconic cultural events, attracting participants and dignitaries from across the country and abroad, including the President of Ghana.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Sawer/George-Ramsey Benamb