Elmina, June 2, GNA - The Chairman of the International Board of Directors of the Pan-African Historical Theatre Festival (PANAFEST) Mr Kojo Yankah on Tuesday gave the assurance that PANAFEST will never be taken away from Ghana to any other part of the world, as was being rumoured.

"The base and roots of PANAFEST is Ghana and its historical sites and monuments consolidate its position as the best place to host the festival".

Mr Yankah gave the assurance when he inaugurated a 25-member national executive committee (NEC) of the 2005 PANAFEST. The committee, which has Osabarima Kwesi Atta II, Omanhene of the Oguaa traditional area as chairman, is tasked with the responsibility of making the necessary preparations towards the celebration of a successful PANAFEST 2005.

The committee would among others strengthen the organisational base of the festival, raise funds, popularise and promote the festival in other countries to attract more people to participate.

PANAFEST, which was first celebrated in the country in 1992, is now being celebrated every two years, and attracts people from Africa and those in the diaspora.

Mr Yankah said, in spite of the international recognition of the festival, it still suffers a serious setback due to lack of funds and therefore urged the committee members to endeavour to embark upon promotional activities to get more sponsorship and patronage.

Osabarima Atta on behalf of the members thanked Mr Yankah for the confidence reposed in them and said despite the fact that the task ahead of them was arduous, they would work hard to make 2005 PANAFEST a success.

Rabbi kohain Halevi executive secretary of PANAFEST Foundation said the success of 2005 PANAFEST will depend on how hard the members work and therefore called on them to bring to bear their expertise.