The people of Sirigu in the Kassena-Nankana West District of the Upper East Region have officially launched the 2026 edition of the Azuko Annual Festival, with a call for unity, peace, and collective action to drive community development.
The launch, held at the Azuko-Dana Palace in Sirigu, marked the second edition of the festival, which is scheduled for December. The annual celebration aims to bring together the people of Sirigu to promote their rich cultural heritage, strengthen social bonds, and advance shared development goals.
The 2026 festival is themed: “Celebrating Our Heritage Through Peace and Security Stakeholders as Catalysts for Sirigu Development.”
The theme emphasizes the need to preserve the community’s traditions while recognizing peace and security as key foundations for sustainable progress.
The Upper East Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Mr. Joseph Appiagyei, who chaired the ceremony, officially unveiled the theme and urged stakeholders to unite for the growth of Sirigu.
He called on traditional leaders, government institutions, development partners, religious bodies, women, the youth, and indigenes of Sirigu to contribute to the development of the community.
Quoting the African proverb, “One finger cannot pick up a stone,” Mr. Appiagyei stressed that meaningful development can only be achieved through collective efforts.
Delivering the keynote address, Brother Valerus Asandoo described the festival theme as timely, noting that cultural heritage serves as an important resource for shaping the future.
“Our customs, traditions, language, arts, festivals, and values are the pillars upon which our identity stands,” he said, urging the people to protect their heritage while promoting peace and unity.
The launch attracted several dignitaries, including the Upper East Regional Director of the National Centre for Culture, Mr. Collins Ahmed Edward, traditional leaders, representatives of the District Chief Executive and Member of Parliament, development partners, and assembly members.
The event featured colourful cultural displays, including drumming and dance performances by women’s groups, showcasing Sirigu’s rich traditions.
Meanwhile, the festival steering committee appealed for support toward the construction of a police station in the community, highlighting the importance of improved security in promoting local development.
Source: bolgafmonline.com |102.7 MHz | Joseph Napoleon Anaaya | Sirigu
