In a powerful display of cultural unity and mutual respect, the King and Overlord of the Akuapem Traditional Council, Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III on Thursday, 25th September, 2025 extended a formal invitation to Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, King of the Gonja Kingdom, to attend the 199th Odwira Festival of the Akuapem people.
The invitation was delivered in person at the Jakpa Palace by a high-powered delegation led by Osahene Boafo Ansah II, the Kontihene and senior divisional chief of Akuapem. Addressing the Yagbonwura, Osahene Ansah II expressed deep appreciation for the warm reception and highlighted the deep cultural and historical ties between the two kingdoms.
“We have a common tradition, a common culture, a common goal, and a common heritage to protect,” Osahene said. “The Akuapemhene cannot do without you, and cannot do without the people of Gonjaland.”
The 199th Odwira Festival which will begin on the 20th and climax on the 24th October, 2025, marks a significant milestone in Akuapem’s cultural calendar, originally instituted in 1826 by Nana Addo Dankwa I. Next year’s celebration in 2026 will mark the 200th anniversary of the revered festival, making this year’s event a prelude to a major historic celebration.
As part of the visit, the Akuapem delegation presented the Yagbonwura with a special invitation package, including historical documentation on the Odwira Festival, offering insights into the cultural heritage of Akuapeman and its seventeen principal towns.
In response, HRM Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Akuapem delegation.
“I thank you for this recognition and the honour of visiting my palace,” he said. “I will honor the invitation in grand style to strengthen our long-standing relationship and signify the bond between our peoples.”
The Akuapem delegation included several distinguished chiefs and elders, such as Nana Amoako Ampong I (Ahwerase Ampomoahene), Nana Odei Asiedu (Kronti Ankobeahene, Larteh Ahenease), Gyasekyeame Ayesu Pentemprem (Larteh), Premsiako Abetia Kwapong, Abotekyi Gyasehene, and Okuapehene Ntotoyehene, among others.
As the 199th Odwira Festival approaches, this cross-regional royal engagement marks a promising chapter in fostering national unity through shared heritage and traditional leadership.
Source: Padfm.com.gh/Kumatey Gorden/0243531604
