‘Akuapem Odwira must be recognised as a national cultural and tourism asset’

Akuapem Odwira Festival should be officially recognised and promoted as a major national event, according to Nana Bekoe Dankwa, Tufuhene of Adweso–Akuapem in the Eastern Region.

Speaking at the Okuapehene’s Palace during the launch of activities to mark the festival’s 200th Anniversary, Nana Bekoe Dankwa urged the Government of Ghana to elevate the Odwira Festival to national status.

He noted that for two centuries, the celebration has preserved Ghana’s cultural heritage while attracting visitors from across the country and beyond.

A passionate advocate for culture, tourism, environmental conservation, and youth and women empowerment, Nana Bekoe Dankwa, emphasised that the festival has consistently showcased the rich traditions and identity of the Akuapem people.

He added that Odwira has contributed not only to cultural preservation, but also to economic growth and the promotion of Ghanaian and African heritage on the global stage.

The Tufuhene of Adweso–Akuapem stressed that the 2026 bicentennial celebration presents a unique opportunity to promote key tourist attractions across Akuapem and to honour distinguished sons and daughters whose efforts have shaped both Akuapem and national development.

Nana Bekoe Dankwa also appealed to the Okuapehene, Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III, together with the Divisional Chiefs (Mpankanfo) and the Akuapem Traditional Council, to intensify efforts to safeguard Akuapem lands and assets.

He called for proper recognition of towns and villages whose historical and developmental contributions have been central to Akuapem’s growth.

Highlighting development in Adweso–Akuapem, he described the town as one of the most developed areas in Akuapem as he pointed to major institutions located on Adweso land, including Koforidua Technical University, Koforidua Midwifery and Nursing College and the Koforidua Youth and Resource Centre, as well as several public and private establishments.

He maintained that these institutions deserve greater recognition from traditional authorities, adding that Adweso and Akuapem should be clearly reflected in the naming of institutions to help safeguard and project the identity, lands and boundaries of the area.

On the occasion, Nana Bekoe Dankwa commended his chief, Ogyeahoho Nana Tete Pimpong II, Chief of Adweso and Mponoahene of Akuapem, for his significant contributions to the town’s development.

Providing historical context, Nana Bekoe Dankwa recalled that Nana Addo Dankwa I,  first celebrated the Akuapem Odwira Festival in October 1826 after the Katamanso War and that 2026 marks exactly 200 years since its inception — a milestone yet to be formally celebrated under the reign of Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III.

He further explained that historical records show that Nana Addo Dankwa I, Nana Addo Dankwa II, Nana Kwasi Akuffo I and II – who marked the festival’s centenary—and the current Okuapehene all come from the Sakyiabea Royal Family of Akropong–Akuapem.

This, he said, gives the 2026 bicentennial celebration added spiritual and historical significance, underscoring the direct royal lineage connecting the present Okuapehene to his predecessors.

 

 

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