By Alex Eddie
On Friday, the 2023 Akuapem Odwira was climaxed with a durbar of chiefs and people at Akropong in the Eastern Region.
The Durbar is the first to be held after the installation of the Okuapehene, Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo. It had the theme of Eco-Tourism to foster sustainable development.
Events leading to the 2023 Akuapem Odwira were interspersed with rich culture from drumming, musketry and the display of diverse traditional clothing. It was a magnet for commands of various traditional authorities in the eastern region.
PSE SND UP Then the grand entry of the Omanhene of the Akuapem traditional area, Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo, at perhaps, the first durbar to be organized in his honour after he was installed as Okuapehene. He is also the 26th occupant of the Oforikuma stool of Akuapem.
To residents of Akropong and its environs, the 2023 Odwira opens another chapter of unity, development and more business opportunities in the area.
The durbar was nearly marred by a rainstorm but the “sumankwaahene” of the traditional area was consulted to plead with God to hold onto the rains, and to the surprise of many, the rains stopped after a few minutes with accompanying sunshine for the programme to continue as well as the arrival of the President, Nana Akufo Addo. GBCNEWS had the opportunity to speak to the Sumankwaahene, Ogyeabour Kumi Annoba Sasraku.
In an address to people of Okuapeman, the Okuapehene, Nana Kwasi-Akuffo entreated all to make Okuapeman great and strong in unity and diversity. He also appealed for developments in the area.
President Akufo Addo also pledged unflinching support to Okuapeman through development.
The festival, which commemorates the victory of the Akuapem people at the great Akatamansu war in 1824, also seeks spiritual purification, unity, cultural revival, community development, political stability, and promotion of tourism.