UE/R: SOCO PROJECT FACILITATORS URGED TO WORK HARD FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE PROJECT – DCE NABDAM
BY: Gladys Apuweni
The Bolgatanga Branch of the Gonja Land Youth Association marked a memorable and culturally rich Damba Festival Celebration on Sunday, 18th January 2026, bringing together traditional leaders, youth groups, community members, and invited guests in a grand display of unity, heritage, and purpose.
The event was held under the inspiring theme: “Empowering the Youth, Our Culture, Our Heritage.” It served as a powerful reminder that Damba is more than a festival. It is a living expression of Gonja identity, history, values, and pride.
In a brief but impactful welcome address delivered by the vice Chairman Mr. Abubakar Musah Dey the audience was warmly acknowledged, including His Royal Highness Garba Singbinwura, the Regional Chief Imam, the Bolga Gonja Community Chief, distinguished traditional rulers and elders from various communities, honored guests, members of the Gonja Land Youth Association, and the general public.
The Vice Chairman, emphasized that Damba represents a living legacy that must not only be remembered but actively protected, practiced, and passed on to future generations.He noted that culture thrives when it is lived, taught, and respected in everyday life.
“Our youth are the true custodians of this heritage,” he stated. “When we empower them with knowledge, discipline, skills, and a strong sense of identity, we safeguard the soul of Gonja Land.”
He further highlighted that empowered youth become visionary leaders, bold innovators, and proud ambassadors of Gonja culture wherever they go, including in the diaspora. According to him, the role of the youth is not only to preserve traditions but also to adapt them meaningfully within the realities of the modern world.
The address called on young people to embrace the wisdom of their traditions while equipping themselves with education, entrepreneurship skills, and a strong commitment to community development. Learning the Gonja language, upholding customs, and remaining disciplined in character were identified as key pillars for building a stronger future.
Mr Abubakar Musah also appealed to all stakeholders, chiefs, parents, opinion leaders, and development partner to continue supporting youth focused initiatives. He described their support as the bridge that ensures Gonja heritage remains both vibrant and relevant in a changing world.
“Together, we can ensure that the Gonja flame never dims,” he declared.
On behalf of the Gonja Land Youth Association, Bolga Branch, heartfelt gratitude was expressed to everyone who attended and supported the celebration. He noted that the strong turnout and participation reflected the deep commitment of the community to unity, culture, and progress.
The event ended with prayers for peace, blessings, and continued harmony among the people of Gonja Land.
The 2026 Bolga Branch Damba Celebration once again proved that culture is not just a memory of the past, but a powerful tool for shaping the future especially when the youth are empowered to lead the way.
