Lower Dixcove, Western Region – The people of Lower Dixcove came alive over the weekend as they celebrated the 2025 edition of the Kundum Festival, a centuries-old tradition of the Ahanta people which symbolizes gratitude for a bountiful harvest, spiritual renewal, and unity.
The festival grounds were filled with drumming, dancing, traditional rituals, and a rich display of culture, drawing indigenes, visitors, and dignitaries from near and far. The highlight of the celebration was the show of solidarity and support from political leaders and community stakeholders.
Donations from MCE and MP
In a gesture of commitment to cultural preservation and community development, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ahanta West, Mr. Ebenezer Aidoo, and the Member of Parliament (MP) for the area, Hon. Mavis Kuukua Bissue, joined the chiefs and people of Lower Dixcove for the festivities.
Together, they presented a cash donation of GH₵10,000 to support the successful organization of the festival. In addition, they provided assorted items including bottled water, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, to refresh celebrants and guests throughout the week-long program.
Mr. Aidoo emphasized the importance of the festival as not just a cultural event but also an avenue for unity and development. He urged the youth to embrace the values of Kundum—discipline, hard work, and communal service—while avoiding social vices that undermine progress.
Hon. Mavis Kuukua Bissue also commended the chiefs and people for keeping the tradition alive, assuring them of continued government support in promoting culture and tourism in Ahanta West. She noted that festivals like Kundum could be leveraged to create jobs, attract visitors, and strengthen local identity.
Colourful Festivities
The celebration began with the traditional lighting of the Kundum fire, which serves as a spiritual symbol of unity and continuity. The following days featured drumming and dancing, believed to drive away evil spirits and invite blessings for the year ahead. Chiefs, elders, and community members adorned themselves in regal kente and traditional attire, while women led in preparing communal meals at the sacred fire.
One of the high points of the week was the palanquin procession of the chief of Lower Dixcove, accompanied by energetic drumbeats, traditional horn blowing, and chants of cultural pride. The communal feast on Sunday brought the festival to a climax, reinforcing togetherness among the people.
A Festival of Unity and Development
Speaking at the durbar, Nana Kwesi Agyeman IX, Paramount Chief of Lower Dixcove, called for the festival to be used as a platform for peace, reconciliation, and development. He stressed the need for community members, especially the youth, to channel their energies into education, fishing, and small-scale enterprises for the socio-economic growth of the town.
The Kundum Festival, celebrated annually by the Ahanta and Nzema people, has long been recognized as one of Ghana’s most vibrant traditional events. Beyond its spiritual essence, it continues to serve as a rallying point for development initiatives, tourism promotion, and the preservation of Ghana’s cultural heritage.
This year’s edition in Lower Dixcove stood out for its lively atmosphere, high-level participation, and the strong message of unity—a reminder that culture, when celebrated, binds communities together and inspires progress.
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