Naana Opoku-Agyemang Honoured in Oguaa as PANAFEST Spirit Awakens

In a moving display of tradition and political goodwill, Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang paid homage to the Oguaa Traditional Council ahead of the 2025 PANAFEST celebration, set for July 26. The visit was more than protocol—it was a reaffirmation of the sacred bond between leadership and heritage.

Held at the historic Emintsimadze Palace in Cape Coast, the Vice President’s courtesy call was to formally greet Osabarima Kwesi Atta II, Paramount Chief of the Oguaa Traditional Area, and to restate the government’s commitment to working closely with traditional authorities. This gesture is particularly significant in a time when the country grapples with polarisation, and when culture—once sidelined—is becoming central to national conversations again.

The Vice President did not arrive alone. She was flanked by the Central Regional Minister, Eduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere, the Cape Coast Mayor, George Justice Arthur, and other key figures, who were all warmly received by the Queen Mothers and a host of Municipal and District Chief Executives. Their presence underscored the weight of the moment: this was not just a festival preview—it was a political and spiritual moment of national reflection.

True to the customs of the land, she came bearing gifts for PANAFEST—crates of soft drinks, bottles of whiskey, and cartons of water—symbolic offerings, yes, but also reminders of the tangible support leaders must give to sustain our traditions.

In her remarks, Professor Opoku-Agyemang acknowledged the influence and responsibility of traditional leaders in shaping national character. Her tone was humble, even cautionary.

“I will plead with you that, as we are going forward, continue to support us. If in any situation at all, we make a decision that you think will not favour the country, we plead with you to draw our attention; we are not above advice,” she said.

It was a powerful admission—rare in today’s political culture—recognising that leadership must be accountable not only to electoral mandates but also to ancestral wisdom.

The Traditional Council responded in kind. Osabarima Kwesi Atta II presented the Vice President with a Certificate of Achievement and a plaque, not merely as tokens of appreciation, but as a cultural endorsement of her journey and her resolve.

“It is because of your love for humankind that God has blessed you with this position to bless everyone in Ghana. Politics comes with a lot of impediments, but as you have started, when you depend on God, you will never fall,” the chief encouraged her.

In addyto the visit, Dr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, Policy Advisor at the Vice President’s Office, highlighted some of the administration’s initiatives, including the monthly allowance payments to assembly members—often unsung local heroes who keep the democratic engine running at the grassroots.