Emulate Dagaaba-Frafra peaceful coexistence for development – Deputy Tourism Minister
THE Deputy Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Mr Yussif Isaaka Jajah, has urged ethnic groups across Ghana to emulate the peaceful and friendly coexistence between the Dagaaba and Frafra communities, describing it as a shining example of cultural harmony that can drive national development.
Speaking at the 28 edition of the annual Dagaaba-Frafra Friendly Games on Saturday in Accra, Mr Jajah, who represented President John Mahama at the event, emphasised that ethnic unity was vital for fostering social cohesion, boosting cultural tourism and accelerating economic growth.
“The cordial bond between the Dagaaba and Frafra people is proof that diversity should not divide us but unite us. If every ethnic group in Ghana can replicate this model of cooperation and mutual respect, we will create a stronger, more prosperous nation,” he said.
He commended traditional leaders, community elders, and youth leaders from both ethnic groups for preserving a long-standing friendship that has transcended generations, adding that their unity has contributed to the cultural vibrancy of northern Ghana.
Mr Jajah encouraged communities to harness their cultural heritage as a catalyst for tourism development, noting that peaceful coexistence is an essential foundation for attracting investment and showcasing Ghana’s rich traditions to the world.
The Dagaaba and Frafra communities, predominantly found in the Upper West and Upper East regions respectively, share deep historical, cultural, and kinship ties that have strengthened their relations over centuries.
The two groups are known for intermarriages, shared festivals, and cultural exchanges that had fostered peace and mutual understanding in northern Ghana.
Events like the annual Dagaaba-Frafra Friendly Games had further strengthened their unity, serving as a platform to celebrate culture, sportsmanship, and solidarity.
This year’s event was on the theme, “Unity in Diversity: The Dagaaba-Frafra Model for Peaceful Co-existence.”
In attendance were chiefs, queen mothers, technocrats, servicemen and women from the two regions. Among the dignitaries were Mr Richard Kuuire, Member of Parliament (MP) for Nandom; Mr Bede Ziedeng, MP for Lawra; Mr Edward Dery, former MP for Lambusie; Mr Albert Abongo, former MP for Bongo; Prof. Samuel Atintono, Principal of Accra College of Education; Prof. Adams Bodomo of the University of Vienna; Dr Andrews Akolaa, Lecturer at USPA.
Mr Jajah urged other ethnic groups to draw inspiration from this legacy and work towards building inclusive communities that support national progress.
The two groups competed in soccer, volleyball, sack race and lime and spoon race. The Frafra emerged the overall winners of this year’s competition and took home the ultimate trophy, the puppy.
The Guest of Honour, Gbankor Naa, Naa Jamaa Matarah II, admonished the youth to jealously guard the peace that exists between the Dagaaba and Frafra by desisting from acts of vandalism.
The Chairman of the occasion, Dr William Amuna, urged Daaaba and Frafra in the diaspora to endeavour to teach their children the local dialects of Dagaare and Gurune to preserve their identities.
There were cultural performances by the Golop and Sankpiki groups of the Frafra and the Wanye Bewaa group of the Dagaaba. Two Dagaaba Artists, Ms Gifty Dery, and KooRasgee also entertained the audience with thier spectacular performances.
BY GORDON WELLU
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