On a day as special as this, there comes a unique breeze that serves as a reminder and symbolizes a significant event that occurred 9 years ago. Today marks exactly 9 years since Nana Apau Wiafe Ababio Sanwoansan ascended to the Kwabre Heman throne in the Ashanti region of Ghana. It is not surprising that this special day coincides with the day before Akwasidae (Dapaa), which is observed by all traditional leaders of the Akan people. Before I was sworn in as chief of Heman, chieftaincy was perceived primarily as an institution where the chief's role was to protect his territory and defend his people from enemies. Growing up, apart from organizing communal labor, ceremonies, and festivals, I witnessed chieftaincy being entangled in land litigations and dispute settlements. These persistent issues tarnished the reputation of the chieftaincy institution. Upon my swearing-in, I have dedicated myself to transforming the perception of chieftaincy in Heman by encouraging my people to embrace my developmental plans for them. The role of the chieftaincy institution has evolved significantly due to various influences. Today, there are no longer wars fought for territorial expansion as there were in the past, where chiefs led their people in battle against enemies. However, there remain challenges within our communities that we must confront: illiteracy, crime, injustice, ignorance, poverty, environmental degradation, and the depletion of natural resources. These are all adversaries that hinder the development of our communities. I believe as a chief, it is my role to defend and protect the people of Heman from these societal enemies and to influence their lives. To accomplish this, I have several developmental projects, some of which are completed while others are still ongoing, as anyone who has visited Heman can attest. I desire for the people of Heman to feel a strong sense of community and belonging to their town. I aim for them to establish a shared legacy that will endure for generations to come. It has been a long journey, filled with both challenges and triumphs, joys and sorrows. Please join me in celebrating this remarkable and fruitful day of my ascension to the throne of Kwabre Heman
21 авг 2024
