The 131st Ngmayem Festival of the Manya Krobo Traditional Area was a vibrant and unifying celebration, drawing Krobos from near and far to partake in their cherished festival. This year’s event, held from October 19 to 27, centered on the theme, “Homecoming: Let’s Come Back Home and Build (Wa Maa Ya Dom),” under the leadership of His Royal Majesty Nene Sakite II, Konor of Manya Krobo and President of the Eastern Region House of Chiefs.
The festival was filled with traditional music and customs, while contemporary artists like King Paluta and Bongofari brought added energy to the celebrations. King Paluta, known for hits like Makoma, Aseda, Odo Bi Ye Bad, and Sika Aba Fie, performed on October 24 at the foot of Krobo Mountain, igniting the crowd with his lively set that had everyone singing and dancing.
A variety of activities enriched the festival, including health walks, clean-up exercises, health screenings, educational forums, canoe races, a football gala, family bazaars, and church services.
The excitement continued on October 26 with the Krobo Heritage Concert at the Forecourt of Konor’s Palace, where Bongofari, backed by the GIHOC International Band, performed his unique “Odo Reggae” style—a blend of Highlife, Reggae, and traditional rhythms infused with Twi, English, and French lyrics. Bongofari, honored at the Ghana Reggae Dancehall Awards (GRDA) in 2023 for his contributions to Ghana’s music industry, praised the festival’s friendly atmosphere, saying, “The people were welcoming, and their dedication to tradition and development was inspiring.” He extended his appreciation to the festival organizer, Nene Domesiako, for a job well done.
Ngmayem 2024 celebrated unity, heritage, and growth, with attendees leaving with renewed pride in their cultural roots and a commitment to advancing the Manya Krobo Traditional Area.