The Ejura Traditional Council marked its annual Yam Festival with a pressing call for peaceful elections, emphasizing the need for stability during the upcoming December polls. During the celebration held on November 8, 2024, Ejurahene Barimah Osei Hwedie II pointed out the critical role of collaboration among all stakeholders to maintain peace. He noted significant security enhancements in the area such as the newly established Divisional Police Headquarters and military barracks, which he credited for contributing to the current peaceful environment. Hwedie II encouraged residents to remain law-abiding, emphasizing that the collective responsibility of the community is paramount for a successful electoral process.
The sentiment for peace was echoed by Queen Mother Nana Akua Tiwaa II who reiterated the importance of unity within the Ejura community. She asserted that the progress and growth of Ejura depend heavily on collective efforts amongst all stakeholders. Their messages resonated strongly at the festival, which served as an important platform to promote peace and unity among the residents, setting a positive tone before the critical electoral period. Both leaders recognized that the community’s stability is essential not only for the elections but for the continued development of Ejura.
This year’s Sekyerene Festival, also known as the Ejura Yam Festival, took on a more somber character as the council chose to honor the memory of the late Ex-Queen Mother, Nana Akosua Akyamaa. In a poignant departure from the usual lively celebrations adorned with music and dance, this year’s festivities were muted and respectful, consisting mainly of essential rituals commemorating their departed leader. The deep respect for Nana Akosua Akyamaa was evident, and the decision to tone down the celebrations reflected the community’s commitment to honoring her legacy. Ejurahene Barimah Osei Hwedie II articulated the importance of this remembrance, underscoring the significant impact the late queen mother had on Ejura.
Traditionally, the Ejura Yam Festival, or Sekyerene Festival, is an elaborate week-long event that initiates the yam harvest season and encapsulates the rich cultural heritage of the community. This annual celebration has long served as a cornerstone for unity, communal spirit, and service in Ejura. The festival often acts as a conduit for chiefs and leaders to connect with the citizens, discuss developmental aspirations, and galvanize collective efforts toward community growth. The festival embodies both a celebration of harvest and a time for reflection and planning as community members come together to bolster their shared goals and aspirations.
Under the guidance of Ejurahene Barimah Osei Hwedie II, recent Sekyerene Festivals have sparked remarkable growth and development for Ejura, enhancing its viability as a favorable living and working environment. Previous festivals have spotlighted themes such as “Creating a Secured Environment for the Economic Development of Ejura,” which exemplifies the council’s continued focus on progress and prosperity. These celebrations have proven effective in drawing attention to the community’s needs and priorities, fostering a spirit of development that resonates with both local and external stakeholders.
As the Ejura community continues to prepare for the upcoming elections, the overarching message resonating from this year’s Yam Festival is one of unity and a shared vision for peace and progress. The blending of celebrations with the somber remembrance of a respected leader serves as a poignant reminder of the rich cultural traditions that shape the community. With calls for lawfulness and cooperation ringing through the festivities, the Ejura Traditional Council looks ahead, hopeful for a peaceful electoral process and a bright future for all its residents. The commitment to honoring past legacies while striving for collective development signifies the resilience of Ejura as it navigates the complexities of community life in contemporary Ghana.
