Gomoa Assin came alive with rich tradition, unity, and cultural pride as the Chiefs and people celebrated the grand Aho Baa Kɛse Festival, chaired by Vanuatu’s Trade Commissioner to Ghana, H.E. Amb. Prof. Hugh Keku Aryee.
The Commissioner was warmly welcomed to a vibrant occasion filled with colorful rites and cultural displays. As part of the festival, he joined traditional leaders to break ground for the construction of a new police station, demonstrating his commitment to community development.
Originally scheduled to host former President John Dramani Mahama as Guest of Honour, the festival had the Central Regional Minister represent him due to official travels. In his address, the Minister urged chiefs to allocate land for cemeteries, cautioned the youth against abusing the drug “RED,” and assured the gathering of efforts to curb its circulation.
The event drew several dignitaries, including Hon. Richard Gyan-Mensah, Deputy Minister for Energy and MP for Gomoa West; Hon. Margaret Naana Ackon, DCE for Gomoa East; Hon. Alhaji Mohammed Kassim, DCE for Gomoa West; Senior Paramount Chief Steven Thomas, Technical Advisor to the African Diaspora Central Bank (ECO-6); and HRM Rex Timothy Elisha McPherson, President of the African Diaspora Central Bank and ECO-6 Chairman, who flew in from the USA and Canada.
In his keynote as Chairman, Ambassador Aryee emphasized the cultural ties between Vanuatu and Ghana, stressing that festivals go beyond heritage celebrations to foster unity, resilience, and shared progress. Paying homage to the Omanhene and the people of Gomoa Assin, he delivered his greetings in a gesture of deep cultural respect.
He applauded the chiefs, dignitaries, and community for hosting a successful festival and reaffirmed the Vanuatu Trade Commission’s commitment to collaborating with local and international partners to enhance livelihoods and drive sustainable growth.
The Aho Baa Kɛse Festival ended on a high note, leaving behind renewed pride, unity, and determination to advance the development of Gomoa Assin and the wider Central Region.