Badu: The Badu Traditional Council in the Tain District of Bono Region has announced a ban on drumming and noise making as part of preparations for the annual Fordjour Yam festival, set to take place in August. The ban will be in effect from July 15 to August 3, 2026, and residents have been urged to comply with these regulations or face punishment.
According to Ghana News Agency, Nana Asante Dapaa III, the Kyidomhene (sub-chief) of the Badu Traditional Area and Acting President of the Badu Traditional Council, addressed a news conference in Badu to explain the significance of the festival. He emphasized that the event is a key traditional rite for the community, culminating on August 3. The festival provides an opportunity for the chiefs and people of Badu to offer thanksgiving, make sacrifices, honor ancestral spirits, and renew community unity for development.
Nana Dapaa highlighted the cultural importance of the festival, stating, "The celebration of the festival is in accordance with our customs," and called for the support and cooperation of the community. He assured that the council is committed to ensuring a peaceful observance of the season that will honor and preserve their ancestral legacy.
He also pointed out that sacred events on the Badu traditional calendar, such as the Fofie Kurudapaawukuo and Kwabena, are essential for spiritual reflection and paying homage to ancestors. Disregarding these sacred days is seen as disrespectful to the ancestors and customs, and such actions could result in sanctions.
Addressing current issues, Nana Dapaa III acknowledged the ongoing chieftaincy dispute concerning the legitimacy of Dagboo Koangehewideo Bolegebea Badu Akrosumah Agyentadua V, the Paramount Chief of the Wenchi Traditional Area. He emphasized that until the Bono Regional House of Chiefs' judicial committee decides otherwise, Dagboo Agyentadua V remains the legitimate chief. He urged the conflicting parties to engage in dialogue and allow the House of Chiefs to resolve the matter.
He warned against the use of press conferences to issue threats or create disturbances, as such actions could jeopardize the area's peace. Nana Dapaa advised against using new media to sow division or tarnish the image of the Badu Stool due to the chieftaincy dispute.