In a tradition and community spirit, ManyeNaakyei Dode Akabi, the Paramount Queen Mother of Obutu/Awutu and newly appointed queen mother of Ayawaso, has paid a courtesy call on Dzaase.
This visit symbolises her commitment to her roots and the responsibilities that come with her new role. As the first queen mother of her lineage, ManyeNaakyei faces numerous challenges, from improving education to supporting local market women.
Ayawaso, recognised as the first settlement of the Ga people, now looks to ManyeNaakyei for guidance.
While her appointment has been celebrated at the AsereMantse Palace in Kaneshie, her work is only just beginning.
“She has a lot to do,” remarked Nii Amankai III, Dzaasetse of the Ga state, emphasising the urgent need for educational initiatives and support for market women in a village struggling with inadequate infrastructure, including poor roads and limited access to clean drinking water.
As Manye Naakyei prepares to register with the Queen Mother’s Association of Ghana, she is set to focus on the pressing needs of her community.
“The village has been neglected,” Nii Amankai III stated, pointing out the critical need for improved amenities and resources.
“We need her to collaborate with the Minister of Gender to enhance the educational system.”
During her visit, ManyeNaakyei received crucial advice on her duties, reinforcing the importance of her role as a leader.
“Today is just the ceremonial party,” the chief noted.“But it also marks the start of her journey to make a difference,” he added.
The chief expressed deep concerns about the socio-economic challenges facing the region. “Many villagers lack jobs and the government must prioritise education and employment,” he urged.
He highlighted the difficulties that traditional leaders face, noting that he spends countless hours mediating disputes and addressing community concerns. “Every morning, I listen to cases ranging from family issues to unemployment.”
The chief lamented the state of governance in the country, advocating for more accountability from political leaders.
“We must ensure that every citizen has access to basic needs. The government should focus on creating jobs and improving infrastructure rather than wasting resources,” he stated.
ManyeNaakyei’s responsibilities extend beyond immediate community concerns; she is also urged to promote peace and unity among her people.
“Voting should never lead to violence,” the chief advised, encouraging a culture of peaceful participation in elections. “Voting is a right, not a reason for conflict.”
As the community rallies around ManyeNaakyei, her leadership is seen as a beacon of hope. She is expected to engage local youth and traditional leaders in discussions about governance and civic responsibility.
“We must work together, not only in Ayawaso but across Ghana,” the chief concluded. “We are one people and it’s time we act as such.”
With her ceremonial call marking a new chapter for both ManyeNaakyei and the community, there is collective hope that her reign will inspire change, progress and unity in Ayawaso and beyond.
