President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has commended the Okyenhene, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, for his relentless advocacy for environmental sustainability since his enstoolment 25 years ago.
According to him, Okyenhene has been very instrumental in creating national awareness around the need to protect the environment and natural resources.
He stated that Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin, who also heads the Asona family in Ghana, is widely recognized as a key figure in the fight for environmental conservation.
“I commend Okyenhene for ensuring peace in Okyeman. Most importantly, I thank him for his consistent advocacy on environmental sustainability, ensuring that our natural environment and resources—our lands and river bodies—are conserved for future generations. Now, this advocacy has become much louder across the country. If there is someone we have to single out to be praised for this advocacy, it is Okyenhene Amoatia Ofori Panin. We thank him very much,” the president said. When speaking at a grand durbar in Kyebi, held to mark Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin’s silver jubilee as Okyenhene.
President Akufo-Addo also encouraged Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin to remain steadfast despite any personal attacks. “You have done well. You have promoted peace and development in Okyeman. The world has seen your dedication and humility towards mankind. As for the insults, don’t worry, just stay focused. If you complain about insults, then what about me?” the President remarked with a smile.
The grand durbar marked the climax of celebrations commemorating the Okyenhene’s 25 years on the Ofori Panin Stool.
As part of the celebration, the Okyenhene toured the five divisions of the Abuakwa Traditional area, interacting with divisional chiefs and subjects.
The events began with the Adonten divisional durbar in Kukurantumi, followed by the Benkum durbar in Begoro, the Nifa durbar in Asiakwa, the Oseawuo durbar in Wenchi, and the Gyaase durbar in Kwaben.
In his speech, the Okyenhene expressed gratitude to his numerous supporters and institutions that have stood by him over the past 25 years.
He reiterated his call for decentralization in Ghana’s governance system, stressing that the current centralized model hinders accountability and development.
“Kwame Nkrumah initiated the concept of centralizing our resources and governance system. We send all our resources to the national coffers, and governance is controlled at the top. This system hasn’t helped us, and we need to change,” Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin emphasized.
The grand durbar was attended by prominent chiefs from across the country, including the Ga Mantse, Nungua Mantse, Osu Mantse, New Juabenmanhene, Ejisu and Manso Nkwanta Chiefs, Offinsohene, the Yilo Krobo Chief, Kwahu Tafo Chief, Okuapehene, and other notable leaders from the Central and Western regions. There was also a colorful display of culture from the various traditional authorities represented at the event.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/1035FM/Kojo Ansah
