The Paramount Chief and people of Dormaa Traditional Area in the Brong-Ahafo Region of Ghana are preparing for a cultural extravaganza. It is the Great Kwafie Festival. It is celebrated this year in conjunction with the 15th anniversary enstoolment of Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II and Odeneho Akosua Fima Gyabeng II, Dormaahene and Dormaahemaa, respectively. The 2014 Kwafie Festival starts on Friday, December 12 and ends on December 21.

The Kwafie Festival is celebrated to commemorate the bringing of fire to the area that is said to have been accomplished by their ancestors who immigrated to the Dormaa State long ago. The Dormaa people are reputed to have brought fire to Ghana. This is epitomized by the burning of a large bonfire in front of the Chief’s Palace, Abampreduase. Also of significance is the purification of the ancestral stools that is done at a designated river. The entire celebration is climaxed by drumming, dancing, music, feasts and display of the paraphernalia of the Chiefs.

A spirit of unity among the people of the area is highlighted. The occasion is also used to assess the socio-economic progress of the Dormaa Traditional Area. The theme chosen for the 2014 Kwafie Festival is “Anniversary of Peace, Development and Distinct Leadership.”

In view of the Kwafie Festival’s high cultural, traditional and historical significance, every Chief, Queen, and citizen of the Dormaa Traditional Area is obligated to attend and participate. In attendance, among others, will be His Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama, Presidents and Representatives of neighboring countries, Ghanaian Chiefs and Queens, Diplomats, high political figures, and religious leaders.