The Okuapehene, Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III has officially launched the bicentennial celebration of the Odwira Festival Akuapem—the Krontihene, Adontehene, Gyasehene, Benkumhene, and Ninfahene—alongside the Eastern Regional Minister, Municipal and District Chief Executives, queen mothers, sub-chiefs, and traditional priests.
Gyasehene Osaberima Osim Kwatia II highlighted the significance of the anniversary, emphasizing that it would strengthen cooperation between traditional leaders and residents while allowing for thanksgiving rites and the lifting of the ban on eating new yam. He noted that the festival also honours ancestors and deities, spiritually preparing the community for a new year according to the Okuapemman calendar.
The Odwira Festival remains one of the most important cultural events in the Akuapem area, combining rituals, ceremonies, and artistic performances that celebrate history and heritage. The Krontihene, Osahene Boafo Ansah II, speaking on behalf of the Okuapehene, stressed that Odwira also commemorates the Akatamanso War and the resilience of their forebears, while urging continued unity among chiefs and residents.
Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, a member of the planning committee, described the 200th anniversary as an opportunity for reflection and renewal. She noted that the festival helps preserve culture and reinforces peace and cohesion within communities.
Community-oriented activities are also a central part of the anniversary program. Nana Awuku Sakyi, Chairman of the local planning committee, announced a health outreach programme targeting about 1,000 residents in Akropong, with similar initiatives planned for other divisional towns.
The launch concluded with the unveiling of the official anniversary logo and the cutting of a commemorative cake by the Okuapehene alongside dignitaries, marking the formal commencement of the 200th anniversary celebrations.
The milestone not only honours two centuries of Odwira traditions but also underscores the festival’s role in promoting cultural preservation, community development, and social cohesion across the Akuapem area.
