Nana Kodwo Conduah VI, the Paramount Chief of Edina Traditional Council
The Elmina Bakatue Festival, a significant event in Ghana's cultural calendar, has once again brought together leaders and stakeholders to discuss pressing issues and opportunities for development. This year's festival featured notable speeches from Nana Kodwo Conduah VI, the Paramount Chief of Edina Traditional Council, and Hon Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, the Regional Minister for the Central Region.
Hon Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, the Regional Minister for the Central Region.
Nana Kodwo Conduah VI highlighted several areas that require attention from the government. He urged the government to review Sayiko issues related to fishing, emphasizing the need for sustainable fishing practices. The Paramount Chief also pleaded for the completion of abandoned projects, including staff bungalows at the Elmina Polyclinic and the Ntronoa TVET block. Additionally, he requested support for the Edinaman Senior High School's transportation system and the Youth Employment Agency.
The Paramount Chief emphasized the importance of government support for major festivals like the Bakatue Festival, noting that "Festival Is Business." This, he said, would help boost tourism and local economies. He further called for the expansion of the Elmina Fishing Harbor to enhance the livelihoods of local fishermen and traders. Nana Kodwo Conduah VI also urged churches and other institutions to respect traditional laws and customs, promoting harmony and mutual respect between traditional and modern institutions.
Hon Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, the Regional Minister, emphasized the need for stakeholders to prioritize youth development over ceremonial events. He mentioned the ongoing "Reset Ghana Agenda" initiative by former President Mahama, aimed at revitalizing Ghana's development trajectory. The Regional Minister announced plans for an award scheme to recognize the cleanest town in the region, encouraging communities to prioritize sanitation and environmental cleanliness.
The Regional Minister also highlighted the need for recreational centers in the Komenda Edina Eguafo Abirem (KEEA) area, which would provide youth with positive outlets for entertainment and socialization. He advocated for the use of common funds and GETFUND to support abandoned educational projects, ensuring that resources allocated for development are utilized effectively. The Regional Minister stressed the importance of involving traditional councils in development and decision-making processes at the local assembly level, recognizing the critical role traditional leaders play in community development.
The Elmina Bakatue Festival serves as a platform for leaders to engage with the community, discuss pressing issues, and work towards development. The demands and pledges made during the festival are expected to drive progress and improve the lives of residents in the region. By working together, traditional leaders, government officials, and other stakeholders can harness the potential of the Bakatue Festival and other cultural events to promote economic growth, youth development, and community progress. The festival's theme, "Festival Is Business," encapsulates the potential for cultural events to drive economic activity and improve livelihoods, making it a rallying point for development initiatives in the region.
Story By: Kofi Tutu Reporter


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