Kpedze Traditional Council has Launched this Year’s Auatukpe Za in Ho, Gnat Hall

The annual Auatukpe Za festival, celebrated by the Kpedze Traditional Council, kicked off in Ho, on 31st July 2024 with a renewed emphasis on the role of traditional celebrations in promoting societal unity and development. This year’s theme, “Traditional Festivals: A Tool for Unity and Development, and the Role of Citizens,” aims to underscore the importance of cultural heritage in modern community-building efforts.

The festival, a significant event in the Kpedze calendar, is expected to draw participants from various regions, showcasing the rich cultural traditions of the area in October 2024.

The festivity began with prayers, followed by traditional dances, music, and speeches from local leaders and dignitaries.

The festival encourages community engagement and collective action towards development projects and social cohesion.

Through various activities and discussions, the Kpedze Traditional Council hopes to inspire citizens to take an active role in their communities and work towards common goals.

The project for the festivity is “Revamping our Pipe Water System for Cleaner and Healthier Water.”

Several key figures, including Mamaga Dewotornyo Agoe (I) paramount Queen mother of Gbi Traditional area (Guest Speaker), Mr. Julius Nkansah Nyarko, Senior Manager, Energy Commission (Guest of Honour), and community leaders addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of traditional festivals in fostering community spirit and development.

The chairman for the festival was Alhaji K.S Baba, Secretary of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT).

The welcome address was delivered by Togbega Atsridom (V), the Paramount Chief of Kpedze.

Togbega Atsridom extended a warm welcome to the chairman of the event, the attendees, and the media, expressing his gratitude for their presence.

“On behalf of the five suburbs of Kpedze, I extend a heartfelt welcome to you all. Thank you for accepting our invitation to launch Auatukpe Za in Ho.”

Alhaji K.S Baba, the chairman of the festival expressed his gratitude to the people of Kpedze for honouring GNAT with their invitation.

“My wonderful people, I cannot say much but to tell you that, I’m humbled to attest this recognition on behalf of your wonderful team who have worked tirelessly to promote the significance of traditional festivals in driving development.”

The Secretary of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Alhaji Baba, remarked that the festival’s theme deeply resonates with him.

“Our theme, Traditional Festivals: A Tool for Unity and Development, and the Role of Citizens resonates simply with me and I firmly believe that our cultural heritage holds the key to unlocking sustainable growth, social cohesion, and community empowerment.”

According to Alhaji Baba citizens have a responsibility to embrace, preserve, and leverage their traditional festivals for the betterment of their society.

He noted that traditional festivals have the potential to foster inclusivity, and social cohesion to drive economic growth through tourism and cultural entrepreneurship.

Mamaga Dewotornyo Agoe (I) Paramount Queen mother of Gbi Traditional Area the Guest Speaker, explained the concept of traditional festivals and highlighted their significance to the community.

“Traditional festivals are cultural tools for fostering unity and driving development within communities. Through these festivals, communities can leverage their cultural heritage to build a more cohesive, and prosperous future.”

Mamaga Dewotornyo Agoe (I) emphasized that citizens play a crucial role in directing traditional festivals to drive community development.

Speaking on the occasion was Mr. Julius Nkansah Nyarko, Senior Manager, Energy Commission (Guest of Honour), a Kpedze citizen.

Mr. Julius Nkansah Nyarko reminded celebrants that, the festival cannot be overstated.

“The significance of the Kpedze Auatukpe Za festival cannot be overstated. It is a time for us to reflect on our heritage, celebrate our achievements, and chart a path for our future.”

He urged Kpedze citizens to be fully involved in the celebration which will be celebrated in October 2024.

“I wish to call on all of us to get actively involved in the celebration ahead of us in October after today, we need to take part in all activities, be they traditional, cultural, social, financial, religious, or others, that are geared towards the success of the festival.”

In attendance was Togbe Anikpi III, Chief of Ho Heve, and his Elders. He urged the people of Kpedze to rally behind their Paramount Chief and give him the necessary support to bring Development to the People of Kpedze.

We heard of last year’s Celebration, I’m hoping to witness this year’s celebration in October, Togbe affirmed.
Mr. Nick Eric Gonyui, Parliamentary Candidate for the New Patriotic Party in Ho West was also present to support and Grace the occasion. He promised to ensure Kpedze Awatukpeza gets re-branded to gain national Recognition.

Mr. Kasim Osman Adamu, Assembly member for Awlime Todze Electoral Area and the Presiding Member for Ho West Assembly also urged the people of Kpedze to get united and support the vision and dreams of Togbega Atsridom V. He pleaded with Chiefs and Elders to always commit the Youths in Prayers for them to be successful in their endeavors so that they can also give back to Society.

The Master of Ceremony was. Mr. ASIGBE JUSTICE YAW, supported by Mr.Bansah Stanley