Lower and upper dixcove: The Western Regional Coordinating Council (WRCC) has announced the cancellation of the grand durbars for the 2026 Kundum Festival in both the Lower and Upper Dixcove Traditional Areas within the Ahanta West Municipality.
According to Ghana News Agency, the decision was communicated through a statement signed by Mr. Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister. The announcement followed a meeting of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) held on Monday, August 17, 2026, at the WRCC. The meeting aimed to facilitate the successful celebration of the 2026 Dixcove Kundum Festival but could not reach an agreement that would ensure the peaceful conduct of both grand durbars.
The statement highlighted that due to the prevailing circumstances and potential risks to public safety and security, REGSEC resolved not to hold the events scheduled for Saturday, August 22, 2026. The decision was made purely on public safety and security grounds, with no intention to undermine the cultural importance of the Kundum Festival or the interests of any traditional authority.
The WRCC urged all traditional authorities, Festival Committees, residents, visitors, businesses, event organizers, and the general public to acknowledge the decision and avoid organizing or participating in activities intended to climax the 2026 Kundum Festivals in Lower and Upper Dixcove. The Council emphasized the importance of safety and security for residents and visitors, stating that it could not support holding events under circumstances that might lead to confrontation or public disorder.
The Council called for restraint and respect for the decision, urging all parties to avoid actions or statements that could escalate tensions within the communities. The WRCC and REGSEC reaffirmed their commitment to engaging with traditional authorities, the Ahanta West Municipal Assembly, security agencies, and other relevant stakeholders to resolve underlying differences and restore conditions for a peaceful celebration of the Kundum Festival in the future.
The public is encouraged to cooperate fully with security agencies and relevant authorities to maintain peace, law, and order in the Lower and Upper Dixcove area.