The people of Sirigu in the Kassena-Nankana West District in the Upper East region have launched a double celebration to mark the 10th anniversary of the enskinment of their Paramount Chief, Naba Atogumdeya Roland Akwara III, who bears the skin name Bugum Zote Koom Samiisiga Maltinga, and the maiden Azuko Festival—a cultural tribute to the community’s founder, Azuko.
In a speech delivered on behalf of the Paramount Chief, Stanislaus Nsoh Nyaaba described the occasion as a moment of “reflection, unity, and cultural celebration” for the people of Sirigu. “On this very important day in the annals of the history of Sirigu, Naba Akwara III profusely thanks the Almighty God, the gods of Sirigu, his Divisional Chiefs and Queen Mothers, the elders of the community, and all Azukobisi for the wonderful support he has enjoyed from all of them over the past ten years,” Mr. Nyaaba said.
The Paramount Chief, known by his skin name Bugum Zote Koom Samiisiga Maltinga, was enskinned a decade ago at the age of 29. His leadership has since blended tradition with modern approaches, leaving behind a legacy of peacebuilding, development, and inclusion.
Matthew Abagna, President of the Sirigu Youth Association (SIYA), highlighted some of the key achievements of the Chief’s reign. “Through strategic advocacy and negotiations, he championed the construction of the Sirigu-Zorko Bridge, improving access to education, healthcare, and markets,” Mr. Abagna noted. The Chief also facilitated the establishment of a Ghana National Fire Service post, secured a fully equipped ambulance for emergency healthcare, and initiated drainage systems at the Sirigu Market to tackle perennial flooding.
Under his stewardship, the traditional governance system in Sirigu has witnessed a revival. He introduced and enskinned queen mothers for the first time in the history of the Azuko Kingdom, including the first-ever Paramount Queen Mother, marking a milestone for women’s empowerment in local leadership. Beyond the local sphere, his advocacy has included efforts to protect children’s rights, advance gender equality, and preserve cultural heritage.
Mr. Abagna also praised the Chief’s instrumental role in helping to end the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) within the area and his contributions to resolving conflicts in neighbouring communities. “He mobilised the Atalmiro descendants to help mediate peace during the Doba-Kandiga impasse,” he added.
At the launch, the Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, commended the Paramount Chief’s peacebuilding efforts, especially his role in restoring calm between the Doba and Kandiga communities. “The government remains committed to supporting chiefs to resolve community-related issues because traditional leaders are critical pillars in peacebuilding and local development,” Mr. Akamugri emphasised.
The newly launched Azuko Festival, scheduled for December 2025, will celebrate the community’s founder, Azuko, described as “not merely a settler but a seed of courage, unity, and vision,” according to Mr. Nyaaba. “It is because of him that we are, and so there is a need to celebrate him alongside our current leader,” he explained.
The festival aims to honour the Paramount Chief’s decade of service, institutionalise an annual cultural event, mobilise resources for development, and inspire the youth. Mr. Nyaaba called on all sons and daughters of Sirigu, well-wishers, and the international community to “join us in the countdown to a festival unlike any other,” urging community members to save resources to support development projects.
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