By Opesika Tetteh Puplampu, GNA
Big Ada, June 06, GNA – The Ada Traditional Council is set to launch the 90th Asafotufiam Festival scheduled for 2027.
The Council says the 90th Asafotufiam will be launched during the 2026 edition, the 89th annual celebration.
The council said this year’s celebration would place greater emphasis on traditional rites and customary observances, with some activities being modified to pave the way for the landmark anniversary.
The 89th Asafotufiami Festival is scheduled to commence on August 7, 2026.
Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Asafoatsengua Buertey Okumko Obuampong IV of the Adibiawer Clan disclosed that the Paramount Chief of the Ada Traditional Area, Jetse Abram Kabu Akuaku III, had directed that special traditional cleansing rites and customary ceremonies be performed in honour of departed traditional leaders ahead of the 90th anniversary celebrations.
According to him, the traditional rites were intended to prepare the Ada State spiritually and culturally for the historic milestone celebration.
He further disclosed that Jetse Abram Kabu Akuaku III would also be marking 50 years on the throne, having ascended the paramount stool in 1977.
“As part of the preparations, this year’s Asafotufiami will also be used to launch and promote both the 90th anniversary of the festival and the Paramount Chief’s golden jubilee celebration,” he said.
Asafoatsengua Obuampong appealed to the youth and residents of Ada to observe the festival with the respect and dignity it deserves.
He explained that while all the major activities associated with the festival would be observed, some sacred traditional rites and customs would be performed privately in accordance with tradition.
Meanwhile, Asafoatsengua Osraman Gadugah VI of the Dangmebiawe Clan has disclosed that the traditional council would impose a ban on all funeral activities within the Ada Traditional Area from July 20 to August 17, 2026.
He explained that the temporary suspension of funerals forms part of preparations towards the festival and the traditional cleansing of the area.
“The ban is necessary to ensure full participation in the traditional rites and to preserve the sanctity of the festival period,” he stated.
The announcement was attended by several members of the Ada Traditional Council, including Nene Tetteh Lanuer Okumo IV, Head of the Dangmebiawe Clan; Nene Adela Haviatseh Vleh II, Head of the Kudzragbe Clan and Divisional Chief; Ablao Wornor Agbashie Olengertey, Sewornor Adingua of Adibiawe Saletsosisi; Nomo Nagode Bafloe; and other traditional leaders.
The Asafotufiami Festival is celebrated annually by the people of Ada to commemorate the victories of their warrior ancestors and to honour their rich cultural heritage.
The 90th anniversary celebration in 2027 is expected to be one of the largest cultural events in the history of the Ada State, attracting indigenes, tourists, investors and cultural enthusiasts from across Ghana and beyond.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/Benjamin Mensah
Reporter: Opesika Tetteh Puplampu, GNA