The Paramount Chief of the Abola Traditional Council and Atofotse (Advisor) of the Ga State, Nii Ahene Nunoo III, has called on the people of Abola and the wider Ga Mashie community to deepen their sense of unity and inclusiveness as they marked this year’s Homowo Festival.

Speaking at the festival on the theme “Deepening the Unity Within Abola,” Nii Ahene Nunoo III reminded the people that the true strength of the Ga State lies in togetherness.

“Unity is not merely a concept; it is a lived experience. It is what binds us together as brothers and sisters, irrespective of our backgrounds, beliefs, or interests. In times of joy, we celebrate as one; in times of challenge, we rally together,” he said on August 16, 2025.

The Paramount Chief outlined several strategies to strengthen unity in the community, including promoting dialogue through regular forums, encouraging inclusivity across gender and age and increasing youth mentorship to prepare the next generation of leaders.

He also urged stronger collaboration with local organizations, NGOs and businesses to drive communal development and conflict resolution initiatives.

Beyond the rituals and joyous parades, the festival also highlighted family reunions, communal meals, and peace-promoting rites.

For many in Ga Mashie, it was not just a celebration of culture, but also a reaffirmation of resilience, unity, and collective progress.

Sankofa Series: Exploring the events, unique practices of Homowo Festival

Nii Ahene Nunoo III concluded his address with a passionate call to action, “Deepening the unity within Abola is not a task for the few; it requires the commitment of all of us. Together, we can create a foundation of unity that will not only strengthen our present but also inspire future generations.”

The Homowo Festival, which translates as “hooting at hunger”, is one of the most significant cultural celebrations of the Ga people, commemorating their ancestors’ triumph over famine.

This year’s festivities lit up the streets of Ga Mashie with colour, music, and cultural displays.

Residents and visitors, dressed in traditional regalia, danced to the rhythm of drums while clans and cultural groups paraded through the community, showcasing the resilience and joy of the Ga heritage.

AM/AE

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