Akwapim Odwira festival launched in Accra

Accra, Aug. 10, GNA - The Akwapiman Traditional Council on Thursday launched the 2006 Okuapeman Odwira Festival in Accra.

Nana Aseadeeyo Addo Dankwa III, Omanhene of the Awapim Traditional Area, together with Nana Dokua, Queenmother of Area, and the other chiefs launched the celebration, scheduled to start on September 18. The occasion was also used to launch the 40th anniversary celebration of the enthronement of Nana Dokua as the Queenmother of Okuampem Traditional Area, who ascended the throne in 1966.

The anniversary, which is on the theme: "Woman: A Dependable Partner in Development" is to be celebrated alongside the festival with events such as gospel rock show; easy competition for students; fundraising and dinner dance to crown Miss Odwira. Nana Dokua, known in private life as Lily Addai, became the 22nd queen of the Asona Gyankroma Stool at Akropong-Akwapim area before being enstooled as Okuapemhemaa.

She is an ardent Christian, who currently is a deaconess at the Church of Pentecost.

Oseadeeyo commended Nana Dokua for her good leadership qualities that had helped to unify the people of the area and promoted development.

He particularly praised her for making it possible for Akropong to establish a sister city relationship with East Orange in the USA. Mr William Aseidu Afram, Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, expressed Government's confidence in women in Ghana, who continued to play pivotal roles in advancing the country.