Omanhene Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II Highlights Cultural Significance of Eluo Festival as Traditional Leaders Call for Respect for African Indigenous Worship
Hamza Mohammed 
Omanhene Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II Highlights Cultural Significance of Eluo Festival as Traditional Leaders Call for Respect for African Indigenous Worship
Delivering his speech, the Omanhene of the Sefwi Anhwiaso Traditional Council, who also doubles as the President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, said the Eluo Festival is a cultural event that traditionally heralds the harvesting of yams—a staple crop symbolizing abundance and renewal. He noted that the festival serves to reinforce community ties and support planning for future development.
According to him, the event draws people from far and near to deepen their understanding of Sefwi culture, foster social cohesion, and promote unity among the various communities.
He added that the durbars held during the festival provide a platform for traditional authorities and community members to discuss local development, education, and investment opportunities.
The theme for the 2025 Eluo Festival is: “Our Heritage, Our People, Our Development.”
This year’s celebration also coincides with Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II’s 75th birthday and his 35th anniversary on the throne.
During the festival, visitors are welcomed to share food and drinks amid drumming and dancing, with participants adorning their finest traditional attire. The durbar showcases splendid cultural performances, including poetry, drumming, traditional dances, drama, and arts exhibitions.
The Omanhene emphasized that he has consistently prioritised education and peace as essential pillars for development.
Meanwhile, the Sumankwahene of the Sefwi Anhwiaso Traditional Council, Nana Anyima Gyedu II, underscored the importance of respecting traditional religious practices. He noted that although Ghana recognizes three major religions, traditional religious leaders are working tirelessly to dispel negative perceptions and foster acceptance of African traditional worship.
Speaking to the media after practitioners of Fertish and Fertish Priesthood visited the Omanhene to demonstrate their spiritual practices as part of the festival activities, Nana Anyima Gyedu II urged the public to desist from condemning their traditions. He stressed that authentic traditional worship promotes healing, preserves cultural identity, and should not be confused with criminal activities or harmful stereotypes.
He further emphasized that discussions across various media platforms often reference Ghana’s constitutional guarantee of freedom of religion and worship—an important foundation supporting the call for equal respect for traditional beliefs.
On her part, Nana Baffour Gyau, Chief Priest of Asuo Mpokuampa, highlighted the centrality of culture in Ghana’s development. She stated that Ghanaian culture underscores communal values such as family, respect for the elderly, honouring traditional rulers, and upholding dignity and proper social conduct.
He described culture as “the lifeblood of a vibrant society,” adding that it is expressed in the many ways Ghanaians tell their stories, celebrate, remember the past, entertain themselves, and envision the future.
Nana Baffour Gyau stressed that one of the most important elements of Ghanaian culture is the high regard for the elderly. By preserving and promoting Ghanaian customs, languages, rituals, and art forms, she said, future generations will inherit the nation’s rich heritage.
This preservation, she added, ensures that Ghana’s identity remains distinct in an increasingly globalised world.
“By recognizing and valuing the traditions and values of various communities, Ghanaians can develop a greater sense of belonging and inclusivity, ultimately strengthening the nation’s social fabric,” she emphasized.
Source:Bibianinews.com
