The Volta Regional Minister, Honorable James Gunu, emphasized the significance of traditional festivals in preserving cultural heritage, enhancing social cohesion, and promoting community development during the culmination of the 2026 Have Agadevi Festival in the Afadjato South District.
This vibrant event, held at the Have Etoe E.P. School Park, gathered traditional leaders, government officials, residents, and visitors to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Have community and reaffirm their commitment to unity and progress.
Honorable Gunu attended the festival alongside the District Chief Executive for Afadjato South, Honorable Manfred Tawiah, and various other dignitaries.
Week-Long Celebration of Culture and Heritage
The annual Have Agadevi Festival, serving as a homecoming for natives and descendants of the area, culminated in a grand durbar following a week of activities designed to promote cultural identity and communal engagement.
Events leading up to the durbar included the pouring of libation, a community clean-up exercise, a unity walk, a football match, and a Borborbor cultural night, showcasing the traditions and artistic expressions of the people.
Traditional festivals remain an essential part of Ghana’s cultural calendar, often providing opportunities for communities to reconnect with their roots, honor their ancestors, and discuss developmental priorities.
Festivals Promote Identity, Unity, and Development
In his address to the participants, Honorable Gunu highlighted what he described as the three major significances of festivals.
According to him, festivals serve as a reminder of a community’s journey and aspirations.
“They remind us of where we are coming from, where we are, and where we are going,” he stated.
He further noted that festivals foster social harmony and collective identity, describing unity as the most valuable asset any community can possess.
The Regional Minister also emphasized the developmental role of such celebrations, explaining that they provide an avenue for communities to mobilize resources, attract investment, and initiate projects that improve the welfare of residents.
Youth Encouraged to Leverage Government Programs
Honorable Gunu used the occasion to encourage young people to take advantage of government flagship initiatives intended to equip them with skills, employment opportunities, and entrepreneurial support.
Although he did not specify particular programs, successive governments have introduced youth-centered interventions aimed at addressing unemployment and promoting economic empowerment.
He urged the youth to remain focused and actively participate in initiatives that could help them build sustainable livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Call for Peace and Support for the Festival
The District Chief Executive for Afadjato South, Honorable Manfred Tawiah, also addressed the gathering, calling on residents to maintain peace and unity as essential ingredients for development.
In a demonstration of their commitment to preserving cultural traditions, Honorable Gunu, Honorable Tawiah, and the area’s Member of Parliament jointly donated GH¢30,000 towards the organization of the festival.
The donation was warmly received by festival organizers and community leaders, who expressed appreciation for the support.
The 2026 Have Agadevi Festival concluded with renewed calls for residents, particularly the youth, to embrace unity, safeguard their cultural heritage, and work together toward the socio-economic advancement of the community.
