The first-ever Atebubuman International Cultural Convocation by the Atebubu Traditional Council has taken place in Canada. The well-attended cultural convocation at the John D. Bradley Conference Centre in Chatham-Kent saw the display of the rich cultural heritage of the people of Atebubu.
The event was also used to outdoor Nana Osei Boakye Yiadom as the Ambassadorial Chief of Atebubu in Canada, who is expected to, among other duties, lead the mobilization of support for the development of Atebubu, represent the Paramount Chief of Atebubu in Canada, and lead the organization of traditional events that showcase the rich culture and traditions of Atebubuman in Canada.
In attendance were the Paramount Chief of the Atebubu Traditional Area, His Royal Majesty Ohempon Yeboah Asiamah, some traditional leaders from Atebubu, and citizens of Atebubu in the diaspora. The event was graced by Canadian dignitaries including Darrin Canniff (Mayor of Chatham-Kent), Trevor Jones (MPP, Chatham-Kent-Leamington), Micheal Duben (Chatham Kent’s chief administrative officer), Morena McDonald (Councilor), Brock McGregor (Councilor), and many other distinguished personalities from the Canadian community.
Delivering a keynote address, His Royal Majesty Ohempon Yeboah Asiamah underscored the importance of the cultural convocation in fostering a deeper connection and appreciation of the culture of the people of Atebubu to the outside world.
“I am delighted to see this day on which the very first international cultural convocation of Atebubuman is being held. We have again shown what can be done through determination and collaboration in projecting Atebubuman to the outside world for a positive impact,” Ohempon Yeboah Asiamah disclosed. He emphasized the optimism that the event would begin a new era for Chatham-Kent and Atebubu and further strengthen the relationship between the two communities leading to positive outcomes.
“Through the brief but significant engagements with Mayor Canniff and his office over the past few months leading to this event, I can say that they embody a spirit that indeed cultivates growth from shore to shore, through cross-border engagements. I look forward to further engagements that will strengthen the relationship between our two communities,” he added.
On his part, Darrin Canniff, the Mayor of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, touted Canada’s growing diversity in terms of representation and expressed gratitude to the Atebubu Traditional Council for choosing Chatham-Kent as the home for such a historic event.
“Chatham-Kent is proud to be home to a growing community with representation of vibrant cultures, businesses, and people from across the globe. We are honoured to be home to the first Atebubu Ambassadorial Chief in Canada and hope this connection will continue to strengthen relationships between communities”.