The Nafana Kroye Kuo, a community association, celebrated its 10th anniversary in Techiman with a powerful call for unity, cultural preservation, and sustainable development, placing a particular focus on resolving the protracted chieftaincy dispute in Sampa.
The anniversary, held under the theme “10 Years of Nafana Unity: Reuniting Our Roots for a Stronger Future,” drew a large gathering of chiefs, community members, and dignitaries from across Nafana lands and beyond.
The event was chaired by Nana Amoako Gago II, Chief of Debibi, who also serves as the Head of Teacher Education at the University of Ghana, Legon. He lauded the association’s leadership for their vision and dedication, expressing his satisfaction with the anniversary program. Addressing a pressing community concern, he urged all parties involved in the Sampa chieftaincy dispute to prioritize dialogue and compromise.
“We are all affected by the Sampa chieftaincy dispute. If we are able to resolve it through compromise, I believe Sampa and its surrounding communities will experience significant development,” Nana Amoako Gago II stated. He also called on the association’s leadership to implement robust measures to ensure the long-term sustainability of the newly established Nafana Endowment Fund, calling it an “excellent initiative” crucial for supporting the youth.
Echoing his sentiments, the Chairperson of the Bono East Regional Peace Council, Rev. Prince Owusu Aseku, who was a special guest, appealed for calm among the stakeholders in the Sampa dispute. He acknowledged the Peace Council’s active efforts to mediate the conflict but stressed that a lasting resolution hinges on a spirit of compromise.
Rev. Aseku warned of the severe economic repercussions of the prolonged impasse, noting that instability discourages investment. “The unfortunate reality is that prolonged disputes discourage investment in Sampa and its surrounding communities, which will hinder development not only in that area but also in the Bono Region and Ghana as a whole,” he cautioned.
The President of the Nafana Kroye Kuo, Rev. Francis Sie Amakye, expressed gratitude to members for their contributions to the milestone celebration. He noted that while the association was founded in 2021, unforeseen delays meant this anniversary marked a significant recognition of their collective journey.
Rev. Amakye encouraged all Nafana people to take pride in and actively promote their rich cultural heritage. In a major announcement, he confirmed the official launch of the Nafana Endowment Fund, an initiative designed to support brilliant but needy students across Nafana lands. He assured members that strategies would be put in place to guarantee the fund’s sustainability for future generations.
