By Kamal Ahmed, GNA
Odumase-Krobo(E/R) Nov. 2, GNA – Nene Sakite II, Paramount Chief of Manya Krobo and President of the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs, has called for stronger collaboration among Dangme traditional areas to promote cultural preservation, unity and sustainable development.
He said the shared historical, linguistic and cultural heritage of Dangme communities should serve as a foundation for closer relationships and a common development agenda.
Nene Sakite made the call at the celebration of the 133rd Ngmayem Festival at Odumase-Krobo, held on the theme: “Strengthening Our Bonds: Advancing Growth Through Heritage and Unity.”
He urged traditional leaders across Dangme land to establish platforms for dialogue and develop a common vision that would encourage cooperation among their communities.
He also called for a stronger commitment to protecting cultural values, particularly among the youth, through the preservation of the Dangme language, traditions and history.
The Paramount Chief described child marriage as child abuse rather than a cultural practice and called for a collective effort to end it, while expressing concern about teenage pregnancy.
“Traditional heritage should go beyond annual celebrations and become a foundation for community development, education, youth empowerment and economic advancement” he said.
Nene Sakite also appealed to sons and daughters of Manya Krobo, corporate institutions, development partners and philanthropists to support the completion of the renovation of the Royal Complex.
The facility, when completed, is expected to accommodate offices of the Manya Krobo Traditional Council and the Konor, an archives facility, museum, library and a meeting hall for the State Council.
He said the project would help preserve historical records and make the traditional area’s cultural heritage accessible to future generations.
The Paramount Chief expressed appreciation to the government for ongoing road construction and rehabilitation works, as well as the construction of classroom blocks in the municipality.
He, however, called for the timely completion of the projects and sustained attention to the development needs of the area.
Mr Seth Terkper, Presidential Adviser on the Economy at the Presidency, who represented Dr Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff, said cultural festivals such as Ngmayem were important instruments of national development.
He said such celebrations promoted tourism, mobilised the diaspora, attracted investment, strengthened social cohesion and instilled cultural identity and pride among the youth.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting traditional institutions and cultural festivals as part of inclusive national development.
“Mahama government remained committed to investing in infrastructure, healthcare, education and economic development in the Manya Krobo area” he stated.
He commended Nene Sakite II for his leadership and assured the people that government would work with the Traditional Council and elected representatives to address their development needs.
Ms Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, Eastern Regional Minister, said cultural heritage and unity were essential foundations for sustainable development.
She encouraged stakeholders, particularly the youth, to embrace discipline, hard work, patriotism and solidarity to build a prosperous future.
The festival attracted traditional rulers, government officials, institutional heads, residents and other visitors from across Dangme land and beyond.
GNA
Edited by D.I. Laary/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Kamal Ahmed
Reporter’s Email: [email protected]