Santrokofi Benua holds Homecoming Durbar

As the end of 2024 draws near, the community of Santrokofi Benua in Ghana’s Oti Region is bustling with excitement. From December 19 to 26, the community will celebrate a homecoming gathering, a time for reunion, reflection, and renewal. This year’s theme, “Building a Future for our Community,” encapsulates what is set to unfold during this week of festivities.

At the forefront of this ambitious enterprise is the revered Twafohene of the Santrokofi Traditional Area and Chairman of the Ad hoc Committee, Nana Buamah Kyerefor IV, whose vision for a brighter future has inspired the planning and execution of a series of events aimed at not only celebrating the community’s rich cultural heritage but also embracing technological advancements that will benefit all.

A week of cleaning up

In preparation for the grand durbar on December 25, the community is taking proactive steps to ensure that Santrokofi Benua shines in its best light. From December 19 to 22, a community-wide clean-up exercise will take place, led by Assemblyman Isaac Grant. This initiative is more than just tidying up; it is a call for unity and a demonstration of community pride.

“As part of preparations for the upcoming Homecoming Durbar, the community will undertake a clean-up exercise from December 19 to 22,” Grant said in his appeal to the Benua Development Committee. “This initiative aims to ensure that our community is clean and presentable for the event.”

The Assemblyman recognizes the vital role of the youth in this endeavor. He has earnestly appealed for financial support from the Benua Development Committee to motivate young participants. “To motivate and support the youth who will actively participate in this effort, I humbly appeal to the Benua Development Committee to assist in raising funds. Your financial contributions, no matter how small, will go a long way in covering the costs and providing incentives to encourage participation,” he stated.

Building a sense of unity

The clean-up exercise is more than a prelude to the festivities; it is an opportunity to cultivate a renewed sense of unity among the citizens. It serves as a reminder that the strength of Santrokofi Benua lies in its people, and together, they can achieve a lot. “This exercise is not only an opportunity to prepare for the Homecoming Durbar but also to foster unity and pride within the community,” Grant noted. He has therefore, called on all citizens to come together, mobilize efforts, and ensure the success of the initiative.

Celebrating culture and innovation

Beyond the clean-up, the week-long homecoming festivities will be a vibrant celebration of Santrokofi Benua’s cultural heritage intertwined with modern technological innovations. The community has lined up an exciting array of activities, including health screenings, sporting events, musical performances, and a grand durbar featuring chiefs and community members. Each activity aims to showcase the resilience and creativity of the Santrokofi Benua people.

A cornerstone of this celebration is the community’s long-held dream of establishing a state-of-the-art multipurpose ICT centre. Nana Buamah Kyerefor IV has passionately articulated the vision behind this project. “The multipurpose ICT centre project represents not merely a building, but the cornerstone of our community’s future in an increasingly digital world,” he stated during the project’s launch.

The grand durbar: A momentous occasion

The highlight of the homecoming will be the grand durbar on December 25, themed “Building a Future for our Community.” This event will feature technology exhibitions, cultural performances, and awards ceremonies recognizing outstanding contributions from community members. It is set to be a testament to the community’s commitment to progress and innovation.

As the countdown to the grand durbar begins, the anticipation is palpable among the residents. A citizen of the community based in Tema, Felicia Akpene Dogbe shared her excitement: “I can’t wait for the durbar! It’s a chance to reconnect with family and friends, and to witness the strides our community is making. I encourage everyone to come home and join in this celebration!”

Her sentiments were echoed by Francis Adotse, another proud citizen of Santrokofi Benua: “This homecoming is not just about the festivities; it’s about coming together as a community. I urge all my compatriots, wherever they are, to come and celebrate our heritage and our future. Let’s make this gathering one to remember!”

A call to action

Nana Odabra Brekuate III, Vice Chairman of the Ad hoc Committee said, “as we gear up for this transformative journey, we extend a heartfelt invitation to all sons and daughters of Santrokofi Benua, both near and far. Our presence is crucial in realizing the ambitious goals set forth, from the immediate clean-up initiative to the long-term vision of the ICT centre. Whether you are a local resident or a member of the diaspora, your contribution—be it through participation, volunteering, or financial support—will significantly impact the future of Santrokofi Benua.”

Nana Odabra Brekuate III, who is the Krontihene of Santrokofi Benua, emphasizes the importance of this collective effort. “This homecoming is more than just a celebration; it’s a vital opportunity for all of us to reconnect with our roots and invest in the future of our community,” he remarked during a recent briefing with community members upon his return home to vote in the recent elections. His vision for a united Santrokofi Benua highlights the necessity of collaboration among all residents and members of the diaspora. “Every hand that helps, every heart that participates, strengthens our bond and propels us toward our shared goals. Whether you can lend your time, resources, or ideas, your involvement is invaluable.”

Nana Brekuate further urges all compatriots to embrace this moment as a chance for growth and unity. “Let us not forget that the foundation of our community lies in our shared heritage and collective aspirations. This is a time to celebrate who we are while also laying the groundwork for future generations. Together, we can create a Santrokofi Benua that thrives on innovation and tradition, ensuring our legacy endures.”

His words resonate deeply, reminding us that the success of our initiatives depends on the active participation of every member of the community. Let us heed this call and work hand in hand to forge a brighter future for Santrokofi Benua.

By Innocent Samuel Appiah

The post Santrokofi Benua holds Homecoming Durbar appeared first on Ghana Business News.