By Opesika Tetteh Puplampu, GNA
Sege, Aug. 20, GNA – Mr Daniel Kashi Bessey, Member of Parliament (MP) for the Sege Constituency, has called on the Ada Traditional Council to give the youth a leading role in planning and organising the 90th Asafotufiami Festival, scheduled for August 2027.
Mr Bessey said the approach would give the younger generation an opportunity to take ownership of the historic celebration while benefiting from the guidance and experience of traditional authorities to preserve its cultural and historical significance.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), he said traditional leaders should provide direction and oversight, particularly on customary and traditional rites, while the youth took responsibility for the organisation of the celebration.
“We, as youths, need to learn from our fathers, and if they ask us to organise programmes for the state, especially the festival, it will serve as a learning ground for us to protect our tradition from fading out in generations to come,” he said.
The Asafotufiami Festival is an annual celebration by the people of Ada to commemorate the victories and sacrifices of their ancestors in wars fought to secure and protect their ancestral lands.
The 90th edition is expected to be particularly significant as it will coincide with the Golden Jubilee of the Paramount Chief of the Ada Traditional Area, Nene Abram Kabu Akuaku III.
Mr Bessey said the two milestones provided an opportunity for Ada State to celebrate its history and culture while creating a platform for young people to develop leadership and organisational skills.
He urged the traditional council, youth groups, and other stakeholders to begin consultations early to develop an inclusive framework for the celebration.
He said greater youth involvement would help strengthen intergenerational learning and ensure the continuity of Ada’s cultural heritage.
Mr Bessey said the festival should therefore go beyond commemorating the past to inspire young people to take ownership of their heritage and contribute to the future development of Ada State.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/ Christabel Addo
Reporter: Opesika Tetteh Puplampu, GNA