Nana Okoanadwo II (3rd left) and his elders at the launch
This year’s edition of the Adoagyiri Ayikesee and Adoagyiri Odwira Festival has been launched at a colourful ceremony held at the chief’s palace, Adoagyiri in Nsawam in the Eastern Region.
The launch ceremony, which attracted number of personalities, including traditional leaders, was performed by Okoanadwo Afutu Dompreh II (Adoagyirihene) and the Ankobeahene of Akyem Kotoku Traditional Area.
President Akufo-Addo, ministers of state and Members of Parliament (MPs) are expected to grace this year’s festival, which will take place from February 14 to 24.
Some of the activities lined up include games, cooking competitions among religious groups, musical concerts, a durbar, among others.
Okoanadwo Afutu Dompreh II, who spoke at the launch ceremony, said, “Both Ayikesee and Odwira are spirit-filled occasions where we remember our dead chiefs and ancestors over the years. They are solemn occasions where the past is invoked to assist the present to build the future.”
The chief used the occasion to appeal to government to revive defunct industries like the Nsawam Cannery as part of its ‘one district one factory’ (IDIF) policy, as well as construct a modern day bakery to help address the unemployment situation confronting the town.
The chairman of the planning committee, Kwadwo Ntiamoah Marfo, and his team have promised to deliver a top-class event.