The 88th edition of the Ada Asafotufiami festival is set for August 1–8, under the theme, “Peace, Justice and Unity: The Pillars of Our Progress.”
The week-long cultural celebration which was officially launched in Ada last Friday, would serve as both a tribute to historical struggles and a call for present and future generations to uphold the values of harmony, fairness and communal strength.
A rich line-up of cultural and community activities for the period include traditional rites, candlelight processions symbolising hope and remembrance, a homecoming float to welcome all sons and daughters of Ada, a sacred visit to the ‘Aplaneaye forest’, durbar of Chiefs, cultural expos, music concerts, Miss Asafotu beauty pageant, boat races and forums for youth and business development.
Speaking ahead of the prestigious festival, the Planning Committee Chairman, Nene Agudey Obichere III, reiterated that the festival was a reaffirmation of the enduring values that guided the Ada people through history.
“Our ancestors, tracing their roots from ancient traditions, including ties to Israel, and journeys through the desert to the unified settlement of Lorlorvor, endured immense hardship to establish this cherished homeland, where the Volta River meets the sea and the earth brims with promise,” he stated.
“They fought valiantly in decisive battles (Torjuenya, Adidome and Kantamanso) each one a testament to courage, unity and the will to endure,” he added.
Asafotufiami he said, honours these sacrifices while reminding the Ada people of that peace was hard-won, justice must be pursued and unity across clans and generations was the greatest strength.
Calling for renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence, the Chairman urged all to be peacemakers in families, communities and across Ada’s diverse social fabric. He encouraged the pursuit of justice through transparency and fairness in traditional and civil governance and championed unity as the bridge to Ada’s future prosperity.
“We must welcome all our brothers and sisters from far and near with open hearts. As we celebrate our heritage, let us also look ahead: toward a thriving Ada known for peace, modern industry, sustainable agriculture and innovation,” he said.
He envisioned Ada becoming a premier tourist destination, a hub for modernised salt production and a fertile ground for entrepreneurship and development, built on the firm foundation of communal unity.
He also cautioned against unauthorised use of the Asafotufiami brand while calling for respect and responsible celebration.
He expressed gratitude to sponsors and media partners, while appealing to all stakeholders to become ambassadors of peace, advocates for justice and champions of unity.
The festival launch brought together traditional leaders, political representatives, and dignitaries from Ada and beyond.
