Ya Na Abukari II with Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi
The King of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, has visited the King of Dagbon, Ndan Ya Na Abukari II, in a historic visit at the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi in the Northern Region.
The visit by the King of the Gonja Kingdom is to strengthen the existing relationship between the two kingdoms.
Even though the Dagbon and Gonja kingdoms have existed for several years, there has not been such a historic visit by both kings before.
The King of Dagbon, Ndan Ya Na Abukari II, receiving the Yagbonwura at the Gbewaa Palace said the visit by the Gonja King is the first of its kind by the King of Gonja to the King of Dagbamba which marks a significant chapter in the rich history of the two great kingdoms.
He indicated that for centuries, Dagbon and Yagbon have been neighbours, intertwined by bonds of kinship, culture, and common history and that their people have inter-married extensively, and there are vibrant Gonja communities in Tamale and beyond, where children speak both languages, and some even speak only Dagbani.
“We have Dagbon royals born of Gonja mothers and vice versa. These connections emphasise our unity and the commonalities that bind us together. Dagbon and Gonjaland share much more than geographical boundaries.
“Our traditions, such as the wearing of beautiful smocks and hand-woven clothing, our celebrations during the Damba festivals, and our shared cuisines, reflect deep cultural ties.
“Our lands are home to beautiful and intelligent men and women who contribute significantly to every facet of the Ghanaian economy, from politics to agriculture,” the King of Dagbon said.
The Ya Na revealed that the historic visit will open the floodgates for greater unity and understanding among all tribal kings in Ghana, adding that it reinforces the principle that no king is above another, and that mutual respect and courtesy are the foundations of a harmonious society.
The King of Dagbon was of the view that it was time that the people of the five northern regions came together to address their common challenges of poverty, illiteracy, and underdevelopment.
“This visit signifies the beginning of a new era of collaboration and mutual support. It is an indication to our youth and future leaders to strengthen their bonds of friendship, and work tirelessly to promote peace and development in our regions.
“When misunderstandings arise, it is incumbent upon our traditional leaders, supported by opinion leaders and relevant state institutions, to seek peaceful resolutions. This collaborative approach will ensure that our communities remain united and focused on the collective progress of our people.
“Your Majesty, Yagbonwura, your presence here today and the excitement that it has engendered is an indication of our aspirations and commitment to build a brighter future for our two kingdoms. We are deeply grateful for this historic visit and look forward to reciprocating this gesture to further solidify the ties between our kingdoms.
“May this visit pave the way for enduring friendship, mutual respect, and a united effort towards the prosperity of Dagbon, Gonjaland, and all of Ghana,” the King of Dagbon said.
The King of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, also expressed his excitement about the historic visit and called for further collaborations to strengthen the relationship between the Dagbon and Gonja kingdoms.
He urged Ghanaians, especially the youth, to avoid electoral violence and adhere to the rules and regulations of the 2024 General Elections.
“Election 2024 is about Ghana, and we have to prove to the whole world that Ghana is capable and can manage its own affairs. The rules and regulations outlined by the Electoral Commission must be adhered. As Ghanaians we have a responsibility to choose a leader to lead in a rightful way and this must supersede any other interest,” Yagbonwura urged.
BY Eric Kombat, Yendi