Nana Boakye Ameyaw, the respected Nifahene of the Techiman Traditional Area, has issued a passionate appeal to Ghanaians, calling for a renewed commitment to preserving the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Speaking exclusively to Nkyeremu News at his palace, the chief emphasised that solid education in schools, combined with active parental involvement in traditional celebrations like the Aponor Festival, is essential to prevent the erosion of Bono customs.
“Our culture will completely die if we do not attach seriousness to it,” declared Nana Boakye Yiadom Pemtemprem II. He stressed that parents must show genuine interest by attending events such as the Aponor Festival, ensuring children learn these traditions firsthand. “Education in schools builds the mind, but festivals like Aponor nurture the soul of our people.
The Aponor Festival is a vibrant annual celebration among the Techiman people of the Bono East region, with profound cultural value. Apour is held yearly in March to honours the supreme deity of Techiman, the gods and fertility, who is believed to protect the land’s bounty. The festival features elaborate durbars where chiefs in resplendent Batakari cloth and traditional regalia perform libations, drumming and dancing in Apour style, with people occupying all the major streets in the one-week-long celebration. Self-composed songs with the best danceable beat will arrest your attention.
The Nifahene’s timely plea resonates amid growing urbanisation in Bono East, where younger generations increasingly prioritise modern pursuits. He called on schools to integrate Aponor teachings into curricula and parents to lead by example. “Let us educate our children not just for jobs, but for cultural immortality,” he concluded.
Techiman, a key trading hub, continues to blend tradition with progress, but leaders like Nana Boakye Pemtemprem II remind all that heritage is the foundation.
