The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Ocloo, has led a high-powered delegation of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) and Members of Parliament to present assorted food items to the Ga Traditional Council (GTC) in support of this year’s Homowo Festival, scheduled to be celebrated this weekend.
The donation was made on behalf of the President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, as part of the government’s commitment to cultural preservation and community solidarity.
The package presented comprised 100 bags of maize, 100 gallons of palm oil, 128 crates of beer, 89 crates each of soft drinks, malt and Guinness, 23 cartons of schnapps, 23 cartons of Castle Bridge, and an undisclosed amount of money.
According to the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), the gesture was aimed at ensuring that the eight clans under the GTC, including Gbese, Asere, Abola, Otublohum, and Sempe, would have the necessary resources to observe the festival in unity and abundance.
Speaking before the presentation, Hon. Ocloo expressed appreciation to the GTC for granting the delegation audience at short notice, while conveying the President’s message of goodwill for a peaceful and successful celebration.
“This gesture reflects the government’s dedication to supporting the preservation of cultural heritage and fostering community togetherness,” she stated.
Receiving the donation, the Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, expressed gratitude to the President, the Regional Minister, MPs, the Mayor of Accra, MMDCEs and other dignitaries present.
He also extended condolences to the government and families affected by the recent Ghana Armed Forces helicopter crash, which claimed the lives of eight people including two cabinet ministers.
“These items will be distributed fairly so every household can partake in the celebrations,” the Ga Mantse assured.
Security for Homowo
Following the presentation, the Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, underscored the importance of marking the Homowo Festival in peace and unity, without any form of disruption.
He disclosed that the Metro Security Council would meet to finalise strategies to ensure security throughout the festivities, especially in areas identified as high-risk.
“We must protect our land and community by refraining from actions that undermine peace and development, and instead work together towards the progress of the Ga state”
Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, Mayor of Accra
The Mayor urged all Ga indigenes and residents of Accra to participate actively in the festivities, stressing that the Homowo Festival remains a powerful unifying force. He encouraged harmony among communities, noting that the cultural celebration presents an opportunity to “strengthen social bonds and foster cooperation.”
The event drew notable attendance from dignitaries across political and municipal leadership. Present were Hon. Ashie Kotey, MP for Odododiodio; Hon. Alfred Okoe Vanderpuije, MP for Ablekuma South and former Mayor of Accra; Hon. Dr. Michael Mensah, MCE for Ayawaso West; and Hon. Edmund Agbo, MCE for Ga East.
Also present were Hon. Kalamu Musa, MCE for Ablekuma North; Hon. Alfred Allotey-Gaisie, MCE for Korle Klottey; Hon. Nii Djamgma Vanderpuye, former Greater Accra Regional Minister; as well as several party executives.
The Homowo Festival, celebrated by the Ga people, symbolises resilience and thanksgiving after overcoming famine in their history. It remains one of the most significant cultural events in Ghana’s capital, drawing participation from Ga indigenes, other ethnic communities, and visitors.
The government’s donation reinforces its recognition of the festival’s role in promoting unity, tourism, and the preservation of traditions. The presentation at the Ga Traditional Council adds to ongoing collaborations between state authorities and traditional leaders, highlighting the role of cultural diplomacy in governance.
With heightened security measures promised and significant community support mobilised, this year’s Homowo is expected to proceed in a safe and inclusive atmosphere, reflecting both the heritage and the progressive aspirations of the Ga people.
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