The Suhumhene, Osabarima Ayeh Kofi, has cautioned the youth against violent behaviors, particularly gun firing during festivals, describing such acts as “dangerous and unnecessary.” Speaking at the 2025 Suhum Okroase Odwira Festival, he urged the people of Okroase, especially the youth, to channel their energy into promoting peace, harmony, and community development.
Osabarima Ayeh Kofi stressed that unity is the key to progress. “If the people decide to unite and develop Okroase, it will surely prosper—but if they refuse to cooperate, progress will be difficult,” he said. The chief called on residents to cherish and protect their community, emphasizing that collective commitment and love for Okroase are essential for growth.
The festival, held under the theme “Our Culture, the Foundation of Bringing Development to Our Community,” attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, and residents, celebrating local culture while reflecting on strategies for communal advancement.
The Chief of Okroase, Barima Amoako Kokora Boame I, expressed gratitude to God for guidance and thanked dignitaries for their attendance. He highlighted the importance of cultural preservation, encouraging residents to uphold traditions by eating local foods, wearing traditional attire, and living morally upright lives.
Addressing the youth, Barima Kokora Boame urged them to respect elders, act responsibly, and avoid social vices such as drug abuse. On education, he praised the Ghana Education Service (GES) and teachers for their commitment to improving learning outcomes, congratulating the Okroase M/A Experimental School for emerging first in the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in the Suhum Municipality. He also commended the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Lydia Ohenewaa Sarah, and the Education Director for rewarding outstanding students with educational materials including trunks, mattresses, and learning aids.
Highlighting development initiatives, the chief acknowledged former MP Hon. Kwadwo Asante (Oboafo) for constructing a three-classroom block with an office, and Nana Kwasi Gyampo, Nkosohene of Okroase, and his U.S.-based team for building a clinic and a three-classroom kindergarten block. He further revealed that the construction of a new Chief’s Palace has reached the flooring stage and appealed to citizens, both local and abroad, to contribute toward completing the project.
On sanitation, Barima Kokora Boame reminded residents about the government’s monthly communal labour initiative and encouraged active participation in keeping the community clean to prevent diseases.
The festival concluded with the chief acknowledging the support of his queenmother, Owo Abrempong Agyiebea, Nana Kwasi Gyampo, Abusuapanyin Kwasi Kokora, Mr. Odei Larbi, Chairman of the Odwira Committee, as well as other chiefs, dignitaries, security agencies, media, sponsors, and community members.
“Let us continue to work together for the growth and progress of our beloved community,” he urged, calling for sustained collaboration to drive development in Okroase.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Amuzu Priscilla
