The Igbo Community in Ghana has on Sunday, September 19, 2021 celebrated the 2021 Annual New Yam Festival in Accra.
The festival is meant to strengthen the relationship between Ghana and Nigeria.
The New Yam Festival is celebrated by Igbo people globally, to mark the time of harvest of yam, which is regarded as the foremost staple food crop of the Igbo people.
The festival is also aimed at deepening the cultural and economic ties between Ghana and Nigeria.
The 9th edition of the festival was witnessed by a number of dignitaries including Igbo Chiefs from different countries, Traditional Chiefs from Accra, Kumasi, Volta, Oti Region, philanthropists and a host of other important personalities.
Cola nuts and garden eggs were presented to the Chiefs for prayers and blessings.
The sharing is also in accordance with the tradition and culture of the Igbo people as a symbol of welcoming guests.
In his address, the King of Igbos in Ghana, HRM Eze Dr. Amb. Chukwudi Ihenetu, reiterated that the event was to bring together the two countries for economic growth.
He said the celebration of the New Yam Festival which started in Ghana in 2012 has ensured that the Igbos in Ghana have a Traditional Institution that will lead and protect them. This he said will ensure that the Igbo culture is uplifted in Ghana as well as ensure that the Igbos in Ghana abide by the laws in Ghana.
He further assured Ghanaians that his palace will ensure that no Igbo in Ghana violate the law but rather protect and respect the tradition and culture of Ghana and also ensure that businesses flourish in the little way they can.
The King of Igbos in Ghana expressed his gratitude to the entire Igbos in Ghana and abroad for choosing him to be their leader in areas of tradition and culture.
On his part, the Sempe Muslim Akwashongtse who was part of the representatives from the Sempe Mantse’s Palace, Nii Adotey Odaawulu I urged Igbos in Ghana to continue to live in peace and harmony and make positive impact on Ghana’s economic development.
The Sempe Muslim Akwashongtse lauded the existing peace between Ghana and Nigeria adding that both countries have had a long standing traditional and cultural relationship for decades.
He called on other tribes to continue to promote their traditions and culture to ensure peace and unity for the development of the country.
The Sempe Mantse’s Palace was represented by Nii Anyaa Mantse, Naa Mootso Osa-Manye, Sempe Glefe Manye, New Mamprobi Manye, Odupong Kpehe Manye and Sempe Stool Elder.
