Amanokrom was the centre of attraction as chiefs and people gathered for the Grand Durbar of the Akuapem Odwira Festival in the Eastern Region.
The durbar formed part of activities marking the 200-year milestone of the Odwira Festival.
The Grand Durbar of Chiefs and people of Akuapem Amanokrom, Eastern Region, the Gyase Division of the Akuapem State was held under the distinguished patronage of HRM, Oyeeman Okoforobour Osim Kwatia II, the Gyasehene of Okuapem and Chief of Amanokrom.
The festival was under the theme: “20 Years Of Odwira, Honouring Our Heritage, Securing Our Future.”
It brought together chiefs, queen mothers, traditional leaders, political leaders and hundreds of citizens including the Okuapeman diaspora communities.
There was open display of paying homage to the chiefs, elders and well wishers as well as the distribution of the Gyasehene Customary Drinks.
There was also a grand processesion of chiefs through the streets of Amanokrom.
The customary pouring of libation by Okyeamepanyin Osei Manu, heralded the talking drums Fontomfrom display.
This colourful procession included, the Twafohene, Ankyeasehene, Akyeamehene, Adawsohene, Dodowahene, Poribonhene, Bretuhene, Osomanyawa, Gyasehene, Asonahene, Gyasewahene, Gyasehemea, Akyempemhene and the Ankobeahene.
Addressing the gathering, the Municipal Chief Executive for Akuapem North, John Kumordzi, delivered his message with focus on roads, jobs and government support.
On roads, he said: “Roads are a major factor for economic boost.”
He added: “Therefore government has heeded to your plea last year of which your one way road which was very deplorable is now in good shape.”
Speaking on future development, the MCE stated: “I promise to channel allocated funds to your end for infrastructural development.”
He further assured: “I will also create jobs for the youth.”
Mr Kumordzie disclosed plans by the Regional Minister to visit the community.
He said: “I assure you that the Regional Minister will soon visit to have interactions to know your needs and allocate funds respectively.”
On confidence in government, he entreated: “I entreat all to trust the Mahama-led administration.”
He pledged: “I will not turn deaf ears to you.”
On road safety, he promised: “We will provide speed ramps to help curb accidents on your roads.”
Touching on the 24-hour economy policy, he highlighted progress at Adawso.
He stated: “Highlighting more on the 24-hour economy, construction has already commenced at Adawso.”
He stated boldly: “You will hugely benefit from it.”
He added: “Business spaces will be located to you.”
The MCE also raised concerns about challenges facing the project.
He said: “Some Adawso residents do not seem to comprehend for smooth construction flow.”
He therefore appealed to traditional leadership, saying: “I plead with the Chief to ensure peace and calmness since the project is for a good cause.”
On behalf of the Regional Minister, he made a presentation to support the festival.
He noted: “On behalf of the Regional Minister, I present a cash of 10,000 and cartons of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to support the festive season.”
He concluded with advice to the youth, saying: “I advise the youth to be disciplined to avoid unhealthy circumstances.”
The chiefs and people of Amanokrom thanked the MCE and the Regional Minister for the support and assurances given at the durbar.
