The Vice President of Ghana, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, joined the chiefs and people of Effutu in Winneba this morning to celebrate the vibrant Aboakyer Festival 2026, using the occasion to reaffirm government’s commitment to cultural preservation and local economic development.
Vice President Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang at Aboakyer Festival in Central Region.
This year’s celebration was particularly significant as it coincided with the 30th anniversary of the reign of Oma Odefe Neenyi Ghartey VII, whose leadership the Vice President praised as exemplary.
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“This morning, I joined the people of Effutu to celebrate Aboakyer 2026. This year’s celebration also marks the 30th anniversary of Oma Odefe Neenyi Ghartey VII, whose leadership remains an example for many,” she said.
Culture as a Driver of Development
Highlighting the deeper significance of the festival, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang described Aboakyer as more than a cultural event, emphasizing its role in shaping identity and national pride.
“The Aboakyer festival is a platform for rediscovering, preserving, and promoting identity,” she noted.
She stressed that government recognizes the economic potential of cultural heritage and is actively investing in Effutu to transform it into a major tourism destination.
“Government is therefore prioritizing investments in access roads, infrastructure, and cultural enterprises to position Effutu as a growing tourism hub capable of attracting visitors, creating jobs, and boosting local economic activity,” she added.
Economic Empowerment and National Initiatives
The Vice President used the platform to outline key national policies aimed at empowering local communities, especially women and youth.
She pointed to the upcoming Women’s Development Bank as a major intervention to support grassroots businesses.
“Government is still very committed to key national initiatives, including the Women’s Development Bank, which will expand access to finance for market women, fish processors, and small-scale entrepreneurs,” she explained.
On broader economic transformation, she highlighted the government’s push toward a 24-hour economy, revealing that plans are advancing steadily.
“The 24-hour economy policy is being advanced, and preparations are underway for nationwide 24-hour markets,” she disclosed.
Youth development also featured prominently in her address, with a focus on entrepreneurship and innovation.
“Government is intensifying its focus on youth development, with programmes such as Adwumawura designed to support young people to transform their ideas into viable businesses,” she said.
Infrastructure for Growth
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang underscored the importance of infrastructure in unlocking regional development, citing the Kasoa–Winneba road project as a key priority.
“Strategic infrastructure projects, including the Kasoa–Winneba road, remain a priority, given their importance to regional economic transformation,” she stated.
A Call for Unity and Peace
Commending the people of Effutu for their longstanding peace and unity, the Vice President noted that social cohesion remains essential for sustained development.
“I commend the people of Effutu for their peace and harmony, which continue to provide a strong foundation for development,” she said.
She concluded with a message of unity and hope:
“As we celebrate, we are reminded that progress is sustained by unity and collaboration. May the Aboakyer festival continue to grow from strength to strength.”
A Festival of Heritage and Hope
The Aboakyer Festival, one of Ghana’s most celebrated traditional events, continues to draw thousands of visitors each year, blending rich history with modern aspirations. This year’s celebration not only honored tradition but also highlighted a clear vision for the future—where culture, development, and opportunity intersect.
