In a vibrant display of tradition and heritage, Akuafo Hall Traditional Council hosted the 37th edition of its Adinkra Durbar on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Akuafo Annexe Compound. This year’s durbar was held under the theme “Reimagining Our Cultural Identity: Embracing Our Sense of Belonging.”
The annual celebration remains one of the most cherished cultural highlights at the University of Ghana, uniting students, alumni, traditional authorities, and families in honour of Ghanaian heritage. The 2025 edition stood out with the official enstoolment of a new Chief Farmer and Queen Mother, ushering in a new era of leadership for the hall’s traditional council.
Gracing the colourful event were dignitaries, including Mamfe Gyaasehene Dr. Nana Atekoasere Oteng Boadu, Nyansakuku Ofori Kuma I, Nana Osim Kwatia, Nana Kwesi Opare I, and several parents of the newly enthroned leaders.
Opening the ceremony, Council Tutor Dr. Getrude Aba Eyifa-Dzidzienyo called for unity through cultural celebration.
“I call on all farmers to come together. The goal is simple—to celebrate and promote our culture. And one of the ways we’re doing that is through enstoolment ceremonies like today’s,” she stated.
Princess Kuukua Oteng Boadu, a key figure in the council, traced the genesis of the Akuafo Hall Traditional Council. She revealed that its creation was inspired by concerns over the fading presence of Ghanaian identity among students.
“The late Okuapemhene and the Bursar of Mensah Sarbah Hall observed that students were slowly losing touch with their cultural roots. To reverse this trend, the Traditional Council was established to rekindle cultural awareness among the youth,” she said.
She reiterated the council’s mission to “promote, protect, and sustain our cultural heritage while improving the welfare of Akuafo Hall.”
In a heartfelt speech, outgoing Chief Farmer Nyansakuku Kwaku Twum I reflected on his tenure and what it meant to serve:
“When I accepted the mantle as the 36th Chief Farmer, I knew I had been placed in a sacred position. I came not to rule but to serve.”
He shared his achievements—such as acquiring plastic chairs for the hall and leading cultural delegations—and urged his successors to continue the legacy:
“I leave not just a throne but a seed. Water it, and let it flourish. Renovate reading rooms, make student life more comfortable.”
Outgoing Queen Mother, Oba Hemaa Sekyibea II, called her reign one of the most meaningful chapters in her life:
“Serving as the 36th Queen Mother of Akuafo Hall has been deeply fulfilling.”
She praised her successor, Oba Hemaa Akua Oboobia, for her dedication to the council:
“You’ve already served with grace. In many ways, you’ve shown the heart of a true queen.”
Newly enstooled Chief Farmer, visibly moved by the honour, expressed joy and readiness for his new role:
“It’s a very happy day for me. I’ve served the Traditional Council for years, and now it’s my turn to lead.”
Echoing the same spirit, the new Queen Mother pledged to be a voice for cultural education and youth empowerment:
“I want to help the youth understand and embrace our cultural heritage, because culture is what unites us and drives our progress.”
The event ended on a high note with colourful traditional performances, symbolic rites, and joy-filled celebrations that reinforced Akuafo Hall’s commitment to keeping cultural identity alive.
A parent at the ceremony, Opanyi Akwesi Bosomtwe, praised the efforts of the council:
“The work being done here is beautiful. These cultural activities are important—they teach respect and remind students of who we are. May they never stop.”
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Story by Juliana Okertchiri | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Kelvin B. Annor-Yeboah