Correspondence from the Eastern Region

The Manya Krobo Traditional Area in the Eastern Region has ceremoniously outdoored Nene Ofei Tagbaja as the inaugural Divisional Chief of Asesewa during a vibrant coronation event held in Asesewa.

His installation in January 2025 marks a significant milestone, as he becomes the first Divisional Chief following the town’s elevation to divisional status by the Konor of Manya Krobo, Nene Sakite III.

The rich tapestry of Krobo culture and heritage was prominently showcased at this historic ceremony, characterized by exuberant drumming, firing of musketry, singing, and spirited merrymaking.

Under the theme “Uniting the People for Sustainable Development,” traditional and political leaders from across the region congregated at the Asesewa lorry park on Friday, July 25, 2025, to witness the culmination of the final traditional rites for the newly enstooled chief.

Nene Ofei Tagbaja, known privately as Isaac Ofei Baah, serves as the Head of Public Relations at the Ministry of Health.

The Konor of the Manya Krobo Traditional Area, Nene Sakite II, emphasized the significance of Asesewa having its own distinct division, noting that the prolonged selection process for Nene Tagbaja was instrumental in ensuring that the most suitable candidate was chosen.

Nene Sakite elaborated that Tagbaja's installation would synergistically enhance the efforts of the political leadership through collaborative engagement.
The Paramount Chief commended Nene Tagbaja’s proactive approach in fulfilling his responsibilities shortly after his installation and urged the community to rally around him to facilitate his success.

In his address, Nene Tagbaja articulated his unwavering commitment to fostering the development of his division and the Upper Manya Krobo District as a whole, vowing to uphold the commendable policies championed by his predecessors.

He expressed his eagerness to collaborate with his sub-chiefs to propel development, stating, “I pledge that as the Tagbaja of Asesewa Division, I will work harmoniously with all sub-chiefs, transcending political divides, and uniting as one people.”

As an accomplished farmer, he pledged to leverage his expertise for the benefit of farmers within his jurisdiction. “I am a farmer, and a proud one at that. Through agriculture, I have achieved my current standing, and I will apply the same principles that guided my success to assist you in attaining yours,” he affirmed.

The Divisional Chief assured Nene Sakite of his steadfast commitment to the esteemed position conferred upon him. He called upon traditional leaders and the citizens of the Asesewa Division to prioritize the advancement of their community.

Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, in her remarks, emphasized that the theme for the occasion, “Uniting the People for Sustainable Development,” is not only timely but also profoundly aligned with the aspirations of the nation’s development agenda.

She underscored the critical role of peace in fostering development, asserting, “In our quest for sustainable development and peace, unity remains our most invaluable asset. A fragmented society cannot construct roads, enhance educational facilities, attract investments, or forge a brighter future for its children.”

Minister Awatey urged all citizens to transcend their differences and collaborate towards establishing better educational institutions, clean water systems, health centers, improved infrastructure, and sustainable livelihoods.
Praising the virtues of chieftaincy, she asserted that the institution is a vital pillar of our society—one that has endured through time and continues to be a cornerstone of unity, identity, and progress. “Chiefs are the custodians of our traditions and values, and in today’s context, they also serve as strategic partners in governance and development,” she stated.

Reassuring the chiefs of the government's ongoing support for local development, she declared, “The government remains committed to bolstering local development through decentralization, infrastructure enhancement, youth empowerment, and agricultural modernization. However, development cannot and must not be solely the burden of the government. Our communities must assume ownership, and this is where the leadership of traditional authorities becomes paramount.”

Member of Parliament for Upper Manya Krobo, Bismark Tetteh Nyarko, reiterated his commitment to supporting Nene Ofei Tagbaja in his new role, offering his assistance in any endeavors that may require his involvement. Furthermore, he urged the populace to prioritize unity and peace, highlighting the significance of these values in nurturing a harmonious community.

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