The Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, last Wednesday, joined the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to commemorate the fifth Awukudae of the year.
Accompanied by a high-powered delegation numbering about 500 people, including chiefs, queenmothers and elders from the Gonja Kingdom, the Yagbonwura sat directly opposite the Asantehene, where the gathering paid homage to him.
The visit strengthened the long-standing ties between the Gonja and Asante kingdoms and fostered cordial relationships and cooperation between the two traditional rulers.
It also provided an opportunity for the two kings to discuss issues of mutual interest, deepen cooperation between their kingdoms, and promote peace, unity, and the preservation of Ghana’s rich cultural heritage.
Awukudae, historic royal visit
Awukudae, an important festival on the Asante traditional calendar, is celebrated on Wednesdays nine times a year, with 42-day intervals.
The festival is given added attention and significance when it precedes an ‘adaekese'.
The ceremony usually affords paramount chiefs, royals, diasporans and other high-profile dignitaries the opportunity to pay homage to the Asantehene.
This year, the most significant part of the event, with the Gonja Overlord in attendance, was the convergence of the cultures of the Gonja and Asante Kingdoms, where both of them displayed their rich cultural heritage to the gathering.
A delegation from the Gonja Kingdom performed the Damba dance to portray the first encounter between the Yagbonwura and the Asantehene.
The novel activity was widely received by hundreds of people who graced the occasion.
Many Gonjas residing in the Ashanti Region, who could not hide their joy, joined the performers.
Dignitaries
The ceremony was graced by many dignitaries, including the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, and the Savannah Regional Minister, Salisu Be-Awuribe.
Others were the Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Yussif Sulemana; the Member of Parliament for Salaga North, Alhaji Alhassan Mumuni; MP for Sawla Tuna Kalba, Andrew Dari Chiwitey; and members of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC).
The Kenyan High Commissioner to Ghana, Colonel Shem Ishahilidza (retd), also led a delegation to pay homage to the Asantehene.
Desire, appeal
In a speech delivered on his behalf, Yagbonwura Soale I said the visit reflected his desire to promote unity and stronger collaboration with the Asante Kingdom, in keeping with our ancient tradition.
He said the visit came at a period when expectations were high for traditional authorities to continue preserving and promoting their rich traditions and customs, and said such efforts were essential not only for safeguarding cultural heritage but also for enhancing tourism and contributing to the socio-economic development of our country.
He added that the institution of chieftaincy had been acknowledged by successive legislation and constitutional provisions as playing an important role in the life of the country, particularly in the administration of rural communities and the management of agricultural resources.
“Numerous studies have shown that despite controversies over the relevance of this institution, chiefs remain pivots around whom local communities thrive,” he said.
“I therefore want to appeal to the traditional rulers in Ghana to take this opportunity to prove to sceptics that the chieftaincy institution is ready to take the appropriate steps to better the lives of community members,” the Yagbonwura stated, further stressing that “as traditional rulers, we have a sacred responsibility to preserve our customs and traditions while guiding our people towards peace and prosperity”.
He described as commendable Asantehene’s outstanding contribution to peace-building, together with other eminent chiefs, saying “Your pivotal role in the successful resolution of the Dagbon chieftaincy dispute despite all strong scepticism, remains a shining example of statesmanship, wisdom and leadership”.
Delight
Speaking through the Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu III, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, expressed delight at the visit by the Yagbonwura and his entourage, as it had strengthened the bond between them.
While assuring the Yagbonwura of strengthening the relationship between them, he said: “I will reciprocate the honour done Asanteman by your visit.
I will also lead a delegation from the Asante kingdom to pay you a visit as well”.
