The Chief and people of Sirigu in the Kassena-Nankana West District of the Upper East Region have officially launched the second edition of the Azuko Festival, with a renewed commitment to preserving their cultural heritage while mobilizing support for community development.
The festival, scheduled for December 30, 2026, is on the theme: “Celebrating Our Heritage Through Peace and Security: Stakeholders as Catalysts for Sirigu Development.”
Speaking on behalf of the Paramount Chief of Sirigu, Naba Atogumdeya Roland Akwara III, Stanlaus Nso said the launch also marked 11 years since the enskinment of the Azukodana, Naba Atogumdeya Roland Akwara III, describing the occasion as a celebration of leadership, unity and service to the people.
He thanked the people of Sirigu for their unwavering support over the years, saying their loyalty, prayers and guidance had enabled the traditional leadership to champion development and peace in the traditional area.
According to him, the Azukodana has played a significant role in promoting peace beyond Sirigu, particularly through efforts that contributed to restoring calm in the long-standing Kandiga-Doba conflict.
He urged the people to continue supporting the traditional leadership by promoting unity, discipline and hard work to accelerate the community’s development.
Mr. Nso said the Azuko Festival was more than a cultural celebration, explaining that it also serves as a platform to mobilize resources for community development projects.
He announced that this year’s fundraising efforts would focus on supporting the construction of a modern police station in Sirigu to improve security.
According to him, the existing police post is inadequate for the growing community, making it necessary for residents to take the lead in providing improved security infrastructure.
He disclosed that contributions would be mobilized through divisional chiefs, queen mothers and members of the working class, including teachers and public servants, to support the project.
Mr. Nso also expressed appreciation to members of the festival steering committee and invited the Upper East Regional Directors of the Ghana Tourism Authority and the National Centre for Culture to be special guests at the December celebrations.
Launching the 2026 festival, the Upper East Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Joseph Appiagyei, called on traditional authorities, government institutions, development partners, religious bodies, women, the youth and sons and daughters of Sirigu to work together for the development of the community.
Quoting the African proverb, “One finger cannot pick up a stone,” he stressed that meaningful development could only be achieved through collective effort.
Delivering the keynote address, Brother Valerus Asandoo described the festival theme as timely and inspiring, saying cultural heritage should not only be preserved but also used as a foundation for sustainable development.
“Our customs, traditions, language, arts, festivals and values are the pillars upon which our identity stands,” he said, urging the people to embrace peace and unity while safeguarding their rich cultural heritage.
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