Ekumfi Eyisam C/R), Sept. 9, GNA - Ghanaians have been called upon to packaged their rich culture, and make it more attractive to tourists. By so doing, the country would earn more foreign currency to help it attain the middle income status by 2015, as it so desires. Mr George Kuntu Blankson, Member of Parliament for Mfantsiman East Constituency made the called at the annual Akwambo festival of the chiefs and people of Ekumfi Eyisam in the Central Region. Mr Kuntu Blankson urged the youth and some religious bodies not to see festivals as demonic, or as things of the past spearheaded by some chiefs and old men who do not appreciate modern world. He said the "bible approves of festivals and that was why Jesus Christ was born in a manger". The MP called on the people to see festivals as cultural, social and economic developmental activities, that when enhanced will bring meaningful social transformation to the people within our communities.

"Festivals are not only for merry making but a period to take stock of the individual, family and the community activities and plans towards the coming year," Mr Blankson said. He praised the chief and his people for a well organized Akwambo festival and urged the people to take a good look at it, and see how it could be re-packaged and sold to tourists to earn foreign exchange for development.

The MP had earlier joined the people of Ekumfi Dunkwa, Ekumfi Nanabin, Ekumfi Ekrawfo, Ekumfi Gyinankuma, Ekumfi Gankwaa all in his constituency to celebrate the Akwambo festival. In his welcoming address, Nana Impraim VII, Odikro of Ekumfi Eyisam called on politicians to address issues, and tell the electorates what they can do for them, instead of insults and personal attacks on opponents.

The Chief who is also the Twifo of Ekumfi Traditional Area, praised the youth of the town for providing dustbins for the community to improved sanitation. 9 Sept. 08