The people of Zenga in Kassena-Nankana West District of the Upper East region have held a historic ceremony to celebrate the life and legacy of a revered crocodile known as Yuu-Nyenga, a symbolic figure deeply embedded in the cultural and tourism identity of the area.
The event, which drew large crowds from within and beyond the district, was organized in memory of the legendary reptile that died on December 24, 2025. The crocodile, famous for a horn-like feature on its head—hence the name “Yuu-Nyenga,” meaning “horn on the head”—was discovered in 1963 and became the first crocodile at the famed Zenga Crocodile Pond.
For decades, Yuu-Nyenga served as a major attraction, welcoming tourists from across the world who marveled at its calm nature. Visitors could sit, lie, and even stand on the crocodile without fear, making it one of the most iconic symbols of human-animal coexistence in Ghana.
At the memorial, a tomb built in honour of the crocodile was unveiled at the pond, where it was buried alongside other deceased crocodiles. The event, held under the theme “Protecting our crocodiles to preserve our heritage and enhance tourism,” marked the first time such a ceremony had been organized in the community.
Chairman of the Zenga Youth Association, Emmanuel Kuseh, described Yuu-Nyenga as an irreplaceable part of Paga’s history and Ghana’s tourism narrative.
“The history of Paga cannot be told without mentioning the crocodiles, and this particular one was iconic,” he said. “It welcomed people from across the world and made the community proud.”
He, however, raised concerns about growing threats to the crocodile habitat, including encroachment and lack of protective infrastructure. He alleged that prior to its death, the crocodile may have been harmed, despite efforts by veterinarians to save it.
“We must all become watchdogs and protect these animals. They are not just reptiles; they are part of our identity,” he urged.
The Upper East Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Joseph Appiagyei, expressed sympathy to the people of Paga and emphasized the need to preserve the crocodile ponds.
“These crocodile sites are among the most iconic tourism destinations in the region and Ghana at large. We must act quickly to conserve them for future generations,” he said.
Mr. Appiagyei also noted the dwindling water levels at the pond and called for environmental interventions such as tree planting to protect the ecosystem.
The District Chief Executive for Kassena-Nankana West District, Stephen Aeke Akurugo, described the late crocodile as a cultural ancestor and proposed that the day be institutionalized as an annual festival.
“These crocodiles are not just animals; they are part of our heritage and belief system. We must preserve them and pass this legacy on to future generations,” he said.
The Managing Director of Kacstone Record, Wenawome Duriyem Aborah, whose speech was delivered by Raymond Adda, reaffirmed his organization’s commitment to supporting cultural preservation and community development.
Kacstone Records supported the event with construction materials, a public address system, and a stage setup, while also calling on corporate bodies to invest in the development of the crocodile pond.
The memorial celebration of Yuu-Nyenga featured traditional music and performances, attracting tourists, government officials, and community members in what many described as both a solemn and proud moment.
A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Joshua Asaah|Zenga
