A colourful Asogli double-do
It is difficult to guess what observers of contemporary chieftaincy in this country would make of the launch of the 10th anniversary celebration of Agbogbomefia Togbe Afede XIV and the 2013 Yam Festival of the Asogli state last Monday at the Accra International Conference Centre.
The atmosphere was like a typical durbar ground where drums and gongs wail for dancers to spin and sway and praises are chanted of chiefs and queens who lead their people to observe age-old customs.
The key celebrant at the launch, however, is not the run-of-the-mill chief who does stir any inspiration in anybody. Togbe Afede XIV is a Legon and Yale-educated chief who has both feet firmly implanted in the aviation, sporting, banking and energy generation sectors of this country.
Emcee Kafui Dey was therefore right when he described the event as a colourful double-do initiated by a progressive chief who wants, in his own words, “to take traditional leadership to a new level.”
Perhaps to further accentuate the many-sided nature of the man at the centre of the occasion, Christian as well as traditional prayers were said before the guests who included diplomats, senior government officials, business associates, clergy, Members of Parliament and the media.
Particularly gripping at the programme were the performances by acts such as the Unity and Love Borborbor group, Asogli Asafo company, Ghana Dance Ensemble and pretty R&B artiste, Sala.
Torgbe Afede VIV spoke on wide-ranging issues and concluded that he was filled with “a desire and determination to make a difference.”
Several other people spoke and they all acknowledged the forward-looking nature of Togbe Afede XIV.
Ten bottles of champagne were popped to symbolise the 10 years Torgbe Afede has spent on the Asogli stool. An updated version of his autobiography was launched and copies were auctioned.
This year’s Asogli Yam Festival is themed ‘Traditional Leadership and Development Redefined.’ It will be held from August 16 to September 22.
Activities planned for the festival have been categorised into areas such as cultural activities, inaugurations, business forums, debates and educational meetings, spiritual activities, expeditions, sports and games and concerts.
By Kouame Koulibaly / Graphic Showbiz / Ghana