The quiet community of Nkroful in Ghana's Western Region came alive with vibrant colours, rich traditions, and deep emotions as Omanhenes, chiefs, and sub-chiefs arrived in ceremonial procession, accompanied by spontaneous musketry, to join hundreds of celebrants in marking the 117th birthday of Ghana's first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
The annual 'Nkrumahfest', held under the theme "Nkrumah @ 117: Celebrating His Enduring Legacy – Africa Must Unite or Perish," brought together traditional rulers, political leaders, members of the Nkrumah family, and visitors from Ghana and beyond to celebrate Nkrumah's legacy and cultural heritage.
The celebration provided a platform for the Nzema people to showcase aspects of their traditional heritage, including local cuisine and customs, adding a strong cultural dimension to the commemoration. For the people of Nkroful, however, the occasion carried a deeper significance — the return of thousands of Ghanaians and visitors to the very soil that gave birth to a man whose political vision extended beyond Ghana to the African continent.
Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Member of Parliament for Ellembelle and Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, described the occasion as "a homecoming like no other," saying the gathering was not simply about remembering Nkrumah, but keeping alive the ideals for which he lived. He emphasized that Nkrumah's legacy could still be seen in institutions and infrastructure established during his era.
Mr. Buah also used the occasion to renew his call for the protection of Ghana's natural resources, particularly rivers and forests, against illegal mining and environmental degradation. He said honouring Nkrumah required the current generation to protect the country's natural inheritance for generations yet unborn.
Nana Kwasi Kutuah V, Chief of Nkroful, appealed for government support towards the long-discussed District Hospital project, saying the people of Nkroful and surrounding communities had repeatedly advocated for the facility. The festival was preceded by the unveiling of a statue of Nkrumah at Krisan, adding another physical symbol to the commemoration of Nkrumah in the area.
The event saw three personalities honoured with citations for their contributions to the celebration and the preservation of Nkrumah's legacy. For the Nkrumah family, represented by his daughter Samia Yaaba Nkrumah and grandchildren, the gathering offered an emotional reconnection with the homeland of their father and grandfather.
Key points
- The annual Nkrumahfest celebration brought together traditional rulers, political leaders, and members of the Nkrumah family to honour Ghana's first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
- The celebration showcased aspects of Nzema traditional heritage, including local cuisine and customs.
- The event also highlighted development needs in Nkroful, including the long-discussed District Hospital project.
