By Benard Worlali Awumee
Anloga, (V/R), Dec. 18, GNA-Strong calls for cultural preservation; youth empowerment and international partnership dominated the maiden Experience Volta Festival, at the maiden Experience Volta Festival in Accra.
Patron for the 2025 edition, including Mr Gabriel Tanko Kwamiga Atokple, Volta Region Council of State member and Mr Mohamad Baalbaky, Chargé d’Affaires of the Lebanese Embassy in Ghana, reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the initiative and deepening development collaboration in the Volta Region.
Addressing patrons, Mr Atokple, described the festival as a solid foundation for a lasting cultural platform.
“I remain committed to supporting initiatives that preserve our heritage, empower our youth, and strengthen national cohesion. The maiden edition has set a strong foundation, and I look forward to seeing this platform grow into a lasting celebration of Volta’s identity,” he stated.
Mr Mohamad Baalbaky, Chargé d’Affaires of the Lebanese Embassy in Ghana, on his part, highlighted the long-standing relationship between the Lebanese community and Ghana, assuring continued interest in development partnerships, particularly in education and business.
“Lebanese brands have contributed significantly to the Ghanaian economy and education over the years. We have lived in Ghana for decades, and today Lebanese have become part of the Ghanaian culture,” he said.
The festival, the first of its kind held over the weekend, is the first of its kind, attracted thousands of patrons and featured a colourful blend of cultural, sporting and entertainment activities. It opened with a grand cultural procession through Accra’s principal streets, from the 37 Officers’ Mess to the El-Wak Sports Stadium, drawing public attention as cultural groups displayed traditional regalia and dance ensembles.
Patrons were treated to vibrant performances by several cultural troupes, including Borborbor and Atsiagbekor groups, as well as traditional demonstrations that combined storytelling with symbolic displays.
Art exhibitions by Volta-based creatives showcased the region’s artistic identity, while a rich display of Ewe cuisine such as Akple, Dzemkple and Aborbi Tadi added a strong gastronomic flavour to the celebrations.
Beyond cultural exhibitions, the festival also hosted the Experience Volta Basketball Tournament, headlined by the Tanko Foundation, which brought together teams from the Volta Region and the diaspora, highlighting youth development and sports excellence. The celebrations culminated in the Experience Volta in Accra Concert, where renowned Volta-based artistes thrilled patrons with performances that fused traditional rhythms with contemporary music.
Organisers and patrons alike expressed satisfaction with the success of the maiden edition, with many attendees pledging support for future editions.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Linda Asante Agyei