The Mamprusi community in Bawku, located in Ghana’s Upper East Region, recently celebrated the Damba Festival, marking a significant moment as they extended a heartfelt plea to both businesses and governmental institutions that had previously ceased operations due to ongoing conflict to return to the area. The long-standing tensions had led to the shutdown of critical institutions such as the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), banks, and various private enterprises, significantly affecting the local economy and community morale. During the festival festivities, Lawyer Mohammed Tahiru Nambe, a prominent legal practitioner and respected opinion leader within the Mamprusi community, highlighted the current atmosphere of calm and urged former stakeholders to reassess their decision to leave Bawku, emphasizing that conditions have improved notably.
Lawyer Nambe, speaking to attendees, communicated a powerful message regarding the transformation occurring in Bawku. He reassured everyone that the community has evolved positively, contrary to the perceptions held just a short time ago. He called on government institutions and private companies to return, reaffirming that their presence is essential for revitalizing Bawku and restoring it to its former glory. The legal expert also celebrated the discipline exhibited by the local youth, urging them to maintain lawfulness in their conduct as this will play a crucial role in maintaining the ongoing peace. As part of the festival’s themes, he collectively encouraged fellow Ghanaians to keep Bawku in their prayers, advocating for the continuation of lasting peace in the region.
The Damba Festival, with the theme “Sustaining Relative Peace in Bawku: The Role of the Youth,” also sparked conversations around the responsibilities of the younger generation. Awudu Bagura, the President of Mamprugu Youth in Bawku, echoed the need for youth to reject destructive behaviors such as drug abuse and inflammatory social media activity. He asserted that these issues not only undermine individual lives but also jeopardize the peace efforts that the community is striving to uphold. By promoting unity and encouraging constructive dialogue, Bagura highlighted the importance of nurturing a peaceful environment and resisting any temptations to engage in actions that could escalate tensions in Bawku.
Emphasizing sustainable development, the Municipal Chief Executive for Bawku, Hamza Amadu, addressed the festival-goers by revisiting the significance of peace and unity in the context of Bawku’s long and proud history. He acknowledged the multifaceted challenges the community has faced, noting that the maintenance of peace is paramount for future progress. He applauded the youth’s efforts and emphasized they are foundational to the area’s future, asserting that the envisioned peace can only flourish through continued dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect among community members.
The Damba Festival itself was a vibrant and colorful event, serving as a profound illustration of the rich cultural heritage of the Mamprusi people. Traditional dances, energetic drumming, and passionate singing contributed to the festival’s lively atmosphere. The gathering highlighted the community’s resilience and hope, coming together not only to celebrate their culture but also as a unified front for a more prosperous future for Bawku. It showcased the spirit of collaboration and community strength, reaffirming the intentions to foster peace and development in an area that has endured challenging times.
In conclusion, the Damba Festival was not just a cultural celebration but a necessary platform for voicing the Mamprusi community’s desire for renewal and growth. Through the contributions of community leaders, youth representatives, and local authorities, an overarching message regarding peace, unity, and the need for returning businesses was reinforced. The collective commitment to maintaining a peaceful Bawku, alongside the rich traditions celebrated during the festival, signifies a promising turning point in the community’s trajectory. The optimism shared during this cultural gathering serves as a beacon of hope for restoring normalcy in Bawku and advancing towards a brighter, more stable future.
