By Godfred Aaneamenga Polkuu
Sirigu (U/E), July 21, GNA – The Azukodaana, Naba Roland Atogumdeya Akwara III, Paramount Chief of the Sirigu Traditional Area in the Kassena-Nankana West District, has called on the people of Sirigu to strengthen their commitment to unity, self-help and community development.
“Let us walk together, strong in unity, proud in culture, and determined in our developmental drive,” he said, urging the people of Sirigu, collectively known as Seriba, to continue supporting his leadership by upholding unity, discipline and hard work.
He assured the people that he would continue to place the interests of the traditional area above all else and work tirelessly to promote its development.
Naba Akwara III made the call in a speech delivered on his behalf during a ceremony to mark the 11th anniversary of his enskinment as Paramount Chief of the Sirigu Traditional Area and the official launch of the second edition of the Azuko Festival.
The second edition of the festival is scheduled for December 30, 2026, on the theme: “Celebrating Our Heritage Through Peace and Security: Stakeholders as Catalysts for Sirigu’s Development.”
The Paramount Chief, who is also President of the Sirigu Traditional Council, expressed gratitude to the people of Sirigu for their unwavering support since his enskinment on July 20, 2015.
“Without the blessings of the Almighty God, our ancestors, and your unflinching support, the Azukodaana could not have achieved all that has been accomplished for our community and beyond,” he said.
He likened his leadership to a baobab tree, whose strength depended on its roots, describing the people of Sirigu as “the roots that have sustained his reign.”
Reaffirming his commitment to the development of the traditional area, Naba Akwara III appealed to residents to continue supporting his leadership through unity, discipline and hard work.
He described the annual Azuko Festival as more than a cultural celebration, saying it represented the identity and shared heritage of the people of Sirigu.
“The great Azuko Festival is our ancestral drum. It calls us together, reminds us of who we are, and speaks to the world about our rich heritage,” the Paramount Chief said.
He stressed that festivals should also serve as platforms for community development and announced that the construction of a modern police station would be the flagship project for this year’s festival.
Naba Akwara III urged residents not to rely solely on government for development projects.
“Government alone cannot do everything for us. As the proverb says, ‘Heaven helps those who help themselves.’ If we begin this project with our own hands and determination, it is very likely that benevolent individuals, organisations, and NGOs will join us to help complete it,” he stated.
The Paramount Chief commended the 2026 Azuko Festival Steering Committee for its dedication and assured members of his full support.
He also praised residents, individuals and supporters whose financial contributions, donations and counsel contributed to the success of the maiden edition of the festival, and appealed for greater support to ensure the success of the second edition.
Mr Stephen Aeke Akurugo, District Chief Executive for the area, in a speech delivered on his behalf, congratulated the Paramount Chief on his anniversary and commended the chiefs and people of the Sirigu Traditional Area for maintaining peace over the years.
He pledged the Assembly’s continued support for the traditional area.
GNA
Edited by Caesar Abagali/Audrey Dekalu
Reporter: Godfred Aaneamenga Polkuu
Email: [email protected]