The Bunbong community in the Northern Region was filled with excitement over the weekend as residents and visitors gathered at the forecourt of the Bunbong Chief’s Palace to celebrate the annual Linujil Festival.
The festival, hosted by the Chief of Bunbong, Uborr Wumbe Dawuni, brought together people from neighbouring communities to celebrate culture, unity, and tradition through dance, drumming, and vibrant performances.
The colourful event was graced by the Northern Regional Minister, Hon. Ali Adolf John, and the Northern Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Mr. Angelo Yossi Dogbe, who both commended the community for preserving its cultural identity and using the festival as a platform to promote peace, development, and tourism.
Hon. Ali Adolf John praised the people of Bunbong for their commitment to unity, noting that festivals like Linujil are vital in fostering social cohesion and driving local growth.
“Culture is a foundation for development. What we see here in Bunbong is a community that values its heritage and uses it as a tool for progress,” the Minister said.
Mr. Angelo Yossi Dogbe also lauded the organisers for showcasing the creative and cultural richness of the Northern Region.
“The Linujil Festival tells the authentic story of who we are as a people and highlights the creative energy that makes Ghana unique,” he said.
A major highlight of the event was an electrifying live performance by Ghanaian international music star and native son, Rocky Dawuni, whose dynamic set thrilled the audience. He was joined on stage by Alidu Mohammed of Playing for Change fame, adding to the excitement of the night.
In his speech, Uborr Wumbe Dawuni expressed deep gratitude to the people of Bunbong and neighbouring communities for their continuous support. He said the Linujil Festival is not only a time for celebration but also an opportunity to reflect on the community’s values of peace, unity, and mutual respect.
“The Linujil Festival reminds us of who we are and where we come from. It strengthens our bond as one people and encourages the younger generation to cherish and preserve our cultural heritage,” he said.
The chief emphasized that the spirit of togetherness is essential for the community’s progress.
“God brought us here to live together so that we can progress,” he said. “Even though we speak different languages, we must come together as one and live in harmony to achieve our common goals. Peace is the way to lead it.”
He further noted that the festival has, over the years, become a platform for development dialogue and collaboration.
“Through this gathering, we have been able to attract attention to Bunbong’s potential and foster partnerships that contribute to local development and youth empowerment,” Uborr Wumbe Dawuni added.
Co-producer of the event and founder of Afro Funke, Mrs. Cary Sullivan, described the Linujil Festival as an inspiring cultural experience that reflects the heart of Ghana’s creative energy.
“This festival shows the power of music, art, and tradition to connect people across communities. Working with Bunbong and seeing the joy on the faces of the people reinforces why preserving cultural celebrations like this is so important,” she said.
She also commended the Chief, local organisers, and sponsors for their dedication to sustaining the festival.
“What we witnessed here is more than a show—it’s a story of resilience, pride, and love for culture. The world needs to see more of this,” she added.
The Chief of Bunbong extended special appreciation to the Ghana Tourism Authority, Verna Mineral Water, Sankara Radio, Somuah Radio Gushiegu, and the Bunbong Community Foundation for their continued support.
The Linujil Festival continues to stand as a beacon of cultural pride, peace, and unity in northern Ghana, celebrating heritage while inspiring progress and community spirit.
