- President Akufo-Addo joins Elmina chiefs to lift ban on fishing at Bakatue ceremony
- Traditional rites and canoe display mark the celebration, attended by hundreds
- President pledges peaceful elections and promises to de-silt Benya Lagoon and provide a bus for Edinaman SHS
President Akufo-Addo joined the chiefs and people of Elmina (Edina) on Tuesday for the Bakatue ceremony, a traditional event that marks the lifting of a ban on fishing in the area. The ceremony, attended by hundreds of people, including tourists and indigenes, featured traditional rites, a fishing net casting, and a display of canoes and regatta.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo assured the nation of a peaceful, free, fair, and transparent general election on December 7, devoid of violence. “We would not allow violence during the election, we will ensure a free, fair and transparent poll,” he said, emphasizing that Ghana’s democratic dispensation had made significant strides and remained a beacon of hope on the continent.
The President also pledged to de-silt the Benya Lagoon, provide a bus for Edinaman SHS, and presented drinks and GH¢50,000 to the Edina Traditional Council.
The Omanhen of the Edina Traditional Area, Nana Kodwo Conduah VI, appealed for a fund to support festival celebrations and requested collaboration between the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture to maximize the economic potential of festivals. He also commended the government for building the Elmina Fishing Harbour.
Dignitaries present included the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng; the Central Regional Minister, Justina Marigold Assan; and the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Akwasi Agyeman, among others.
