The Okuapemhene, Oseadeɛyɔ Kwasi Akuffo III, has called on the people of Okuapemman to put aside their differences and work towards greater unity and peace.
He made the call as the chiefs and people of the Okuapemman Traditional Area in the Eastern Region climaxed celebrations marking the 200th anniversary of the Odwira Festival.
Addressing a durbar of chiefs and people, Oseadeɛyɔ Kwasi Akuffo III said unity among the people was essential to strengthening the five traditional divisions of Okuapemman and securing a better future for generations to come.
He said the 200th anniversary was not only an opportunity to celebrate Okuapemman’s rich cultural heritage but also a time for the people to reflect on their shared identity and renew their commitment to building a stronger traditional area.
“As one people, we have inherited a proud Okuapemman from our ancestors, and we have a collective responsibility to preserve and strengthen it for posterity,” he said.
The celebration was held on the theme “200 Years of Odwira: Honouring Our Heritage, Securing Our Future.”
The Okuapemhene said the courage, wisdom and sacrifices of ancestors, chiefs, queen mothers, elders and ordinary citizens had laid the foundation for the development of Okuapemman. He urged the people to ensure that the traditional area they inherited was left stronger for future generations.
Oseadeɛyɔ Kwasi Akuffo III said the history of Okuapemman demonstrated that unity had been a major source of the traditional area’s strength.
He acknowledged the distinct histories and traditions of the various communities but stressed that they shared a common identity as one Okuapemman.
“Where there are disagreements, let us seek understanding. Where relationships have been strained, let us pursue reconciliation, and where personal or sectional interests compete with the common good, let us choose Okuapemman,” he said.
He particularly appealed to chiefs, queen mothers and the youth across the five traditional divisions to unite and work together for the development of the area. The anniversary celebration brought together traditional leaders, political figures, members of the diplomatic corps and people from across the country.
Among those present were former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo; the Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin; and chiefs and queen mothers representing the five traditional divisions of Okuapemman. The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, represented the President, while the Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, Sammy Awuku, was also present.
The 200th anniversary celebration highlighted the role of the Odwira Festival in preserving Okuapemman’s identity, traditions and values while bringing communities together.