Story by Richard Kofi Boahen, Sunyani
The Sunyani Traditional Council has officially launched the Sunyani Akwaaba Festival, a vibrant new annual event set to debut this December, aimed at reimagining Sunyani as a top-tier destination for culture, tourism, and development.
The maiden event, which will be held under the theme: “Sunyani Reconnect; Recognizing Home, Creating the Future!”, is envisioned as a celebration of the city’s rich cultural heritage, hospitality, and untapped potential. It will also serve as a catalyst for long-term development across Sunyani and its surrounding communities.
At a colourful launch ceremony, the Akwamuhene of the Sunyani Traditional Area, Nana Kwaku Sarbeng Ababio, emphasized that the festival marks a turning point for the city.
“The Sunyani Akwaaba Festival will light a perpetual flame that will forever guide our path towards the development and progress we envision,” he declared.
A new chapter for Sunyani
Nana Sarbeng Ababio noted that December will now be a time to showcase the true spirit of Sunyani to the world — a city known for its peace, cleanliness, business-friendly atmosphere, and growing reputation as a hub for education and innovation.
The festival will feature a diverse line-up of activities designed to engage all sectors of the community while attracting visitors and investment. These include:
- Clean-up exercise
- Media Awards and Fundraising Dinner
- Street Carnival & Bonfire Night
- Akwaaba Sales Fair – giving Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) the platform to promote and sell their products
- Children’s Party
- Ogyeamansan Party in the Park – Christmas Edition (featuring a top music artist)
- Christmas in the Street
- Special Thanksgiving Service
A significant highlight will be the launch of an Educational Endowment Fund, accessible to all qualified students within the Sunyani Traditional Area, regardless of tribe or religion — a move expected to empower the next generation of leaders and professionals.
In a heartfelt appeal, the Akwamuhene called on all individuals with ties to Sunyani — whether by birth, education, or residency — to reconnect with their roots and support the city’s transformation.
“If Sunyani has ever shown us love, given us purpose, or helped shape our future, then this is the time to give back. Sunyani deserves better. Let’s honour the legacy of our forefathers by making this festival a true celebration of home,” he urged.
The event also saw the unveiling of the official festival mascot by Ɔdɛɛfoɔ Ɔgyeamansan Boahen Korkor II, the Omanhene of Sunyani, signaling the festival’s official commencement.
Dignitaries in attendance included Vincent Antwi Agyei, Sunyani Municipal Chief Executive, Saed Mubarak, Member of Parliament for Sunyani East, members of the media, and several other notable guests.
The Traditional Council is now inviting public and private institutions, as well as individuals, to come on board as sponsors and partners to ensure the success and sustainability of the Akwaaba Festival.
Akwaaba! You are welcome to experience Sunyani like never before.
