The 2024 Akwambo festival in Agona Swedru has sparked protests from leaders of the Swedru Asafo Company, who allege that the Akwambo Planning Committee has disregarded the customs and traditions of the area. Nana Kojo Acquah II, the Tufuhene of Agona Swedru, voiced dissatisfaction at the exclusion of the Asafo Company and an Odikro from the festival planning process, which he deemed against tradition and blasphemous.
At a press conference, Nana Acquah emphasized that the festival should involve the participation of the Asafo Company and an Odikro to perform ancestral rituals. He urged intervention from the Central Regional House of Chiefs, Agona Nyakrom Traditional Council, National Security Minister, and Inspector General of Police to prevent the celebration by the Swedruman Council of Chiefs, advocating for peace and unity instead.
Nana Kobena Abam, the Agona Swedru Asafo Baatan, highlighted the historical significance of the Akwambo festival and stressed the Asafo's integral role in its celebration. He warned of potential danger if the festival proceeded without the Asafo and Odikro, particularly in an election year like 2024.
Nana Kofi Anyanful, Safohen of Ankobeahene family, appealed to the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs to intervene, emphasizing the peace-loving nature of the people of Swedru and the need to maintain harmony by calling off the celebration.
The protest and calls for intervention underscore the deep-rooted cultural significance of the Akwambo festival and the importance of inclusivity and adherence to tradition in its observance.