Baffour Odei Agyei, the Larteh and Akwapem Benkum Abontendomhene, celebrated a decade of leadership with a powerful message centered on youth empowerment, community development, and the preservation of cultural heritage. The 10th-anniversary celebration, held in conjunction with the launch of the inaugural Larteh Marathon, provided a platform for the traditional leader to articulate her vision for the future of Larteh and the broader Akuapem area. Her address emphasized the crucial role of education, the dangers of drug abuse, and the importance of collaboration between the youth and traditional authorities in driving progress. Baffour Odei Agyei’s call to action resonated with a sense of urgency, underscoring the need for collective responsibility in shaping a brighter future for the community.
A key theme in Baffour Odei Agyei’s address was the imperative for the youth to prioritize education as a catalyst for personal and communal advancement. She urged young people to shun apathy and actively engage with their chiefs to propel development initiatives. Recognizing the detrimental impact of substance abuse, particularly the prevalence of the drug known as “red,” she appealed to parents to strengthen their supervisory roles and ensure their children remained committed to their education. This emphasis on education as a cornerstone of progress reflects a deep understanding of its transformative potential in equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to society.
The issue of sanitation also occupied a prominent place in the Abontendomhene’s address. Recalling a time when Larteh was recognized as the cleanest town in Ghana under former President Rawlings, she lamented the current state of affairs and urged the community to reclaim its former glory. This call for collective action to restore Larteh’s pristine environment underscores the importance of community pride and the shared responsibility in maintaining a healthy and aesthetically pleasing living space. Her appeal resonated with a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era and a desire to recapture the spirit of communal responsibility that once defined Larteh’s identity.
Baffour Odei Agyei’s decade-long tenure has been characterized by a commitment to innovation and development. Her leadership as Chair of the Odwira Planning Committee from 2016 to 2023 saw the implementation of various renovation projects, including upgrades to the Palace Visitors Hall and washrooms, the construction of a permanent clan pavilion, and the initiation of a substantial 10-bedroom storey building project. These infrastructural improvements reflect a dedication to modernizing the community while preserving its cultural heritage. Further demonstrating her forward-thinking approach, she collaborated with other chiefs to introduce new titles within the division, adapting to the evolving needs of the community.
The launch of the Larteh Marathon marked a significant milestone in Baffour Odei Agyei’s vision for promoting Larteh and the Akuapem area as a hub of health, culture, and tourism. The event, accompanied by a health screening and a workshop on snail and mushroom farming, showcased the community’s commitment to holistic development. The marathon, envisioned as an annual event, aims to attract visitors, investors, and sports enthusiasts, thereby boosting the local economy and raising the profile of the region. This initiative reflects a strategic approach to leveraging sports and cultural events to drive economic growth and community development.
The anniversary celebration culminated in expressions of gratitude and acknowledgment. Baffour Odei Agyei extended her heartfelt appreciation to the elders, family members, and supporters who have been instrumental in her journey of leadership, particularly her husband, Nana Mprah Besemuna III, Krachiwura and President of the Oti Regional House of Chiefs. She also paid tribute to Osabarima Asiedu Okoo Ababio III, Benkumhene of Akwapem, for entrusting her with the responsibility of serving her community. These acknowledgments underscore the importance of collaboration and mentorship in effective leadership and reflect the deep sense of community that permeates Larteh’s social fabric. The celebration served as a testament to Baffour Odei Agyei’s dedication to her people and her vision for a prosperous and vibrant future for Larteh and the Akuapem area.
