Dormaa East District Assembly celebrates Ghana Day with symposium, funfair

Baffour Surv. Ing. Dr Kwadwo Damoah-Afari

The Sanaahene of the Dormaa Traditional Area, Baffour Surv. Ing. Dr. Kwadwo Damoah-Afari, has called on Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to include chiefs in their Executive Committees and Public Relations and Complaints Committees.

He emphasized that chiefs play a crucial role in conflict resolution and maintaining peace and stability, particularly through their deep knowledge of traditional laws and customs.

Speaking at a symposium on “Chieftaincy and Culture in Modern-Day Local Government System,” he made the appeal as part of the maiden Ghana Day Celebration in the Dormaa East District. The event, organized by the District Assembly on March 7, 2025, aimed to highlight the significance of Ghana’s cultural heritage in governance.

The celebration, led by District Coordinating Director Mark Maxwell Mensah, formed part of Ghana Month activities, which continue to gain prominence nationwide. It provided an opportunity for staff to reflect on the country’s historical events and cultural values, examining their relevance in modern governance and corporate life.

Sponsored by the Assembly’s management and private partners, the event featured traditional clothing, cultural performances, poetry recitals on Ghanaian heritage, and speeches on the role of culture in governance. It culminated in a funfair at the Dormaa East Eco Tourist Center.

Baffour Damoah-Afari reiterated that chiefs have historically held executive, legislative, and judicial positions in their communities since pre-colonial times. He stressed that their involvement in contemporary local governance remains essential for effective community development. He, therefore, urged local government authorities to recognize chiefs as key partners in fostering development and social cohesion.

In his welcome address, Mr. Mensah noted that modern society’s growing detachment from traditional norms makes cultural awareness initiatives even more vital. He emphasized that such events not only promote socialization but also instill cultural values, helping citizens appreciate the principles that shape their communities.

He further highlighted the long-term goal of making Ghana Day an annual corporate event. If successful, it could pave the way for similar initiatives, such as DEDA Month, which is expected to generate revenue to support the Assembly.

The funfair, held at Nseseresu, was strategically planned to promote the Dormaa East Eco Tourist Center, which features a canopy walkway over a dam. Participants enjoyed local food, drinks, games, dance, and other engaging activities, making the event a memorable celebration of Ghana’s rich cultural heritage.