“Our Culture Must Evolve Without Losing Its Essence” — Affutuakwa Manhene
The Omanhene of the Affutuakwa Traditional Area, His Royal Majesty Okumanini Baffour Asare Kyeahene II, has underscored the need for cultural preservation that embraces progress, stating that tradition must evolve without losing its core values.
Addressing chiefs, elders, and residents at the 2025 Tutukese Afahye Durbar, the Omanhene described culture as the identity of the people and the enduring link between the present generation and their ancestors. He noted that while development and modernization are necessary, they must not come at the expense of the customs and traditions that bind the people of Affutuakwa together.
“Our culture must not be static; it must evolve while retaining its essence. We must be custodians, not prisoners, of tradition,” he added
As part of efforts to strengthen traditional institutions, His Royal Majesty announced plans to reorganize traditional governance structures to promote unity, discipline, and accountability among chiefs and elders. According to him, strong and credible traditional leadership is essential for maintaining peace, harmony, and effective community development.
The Omanhene further revealed plans to establish a Traditional Council Secretariat, a modern administrative office equipped with technology and professional staff. The secretariat is expected to enhance record-keeping, improve communication, and strengthen service delivery within the traditional council, bringing efficiency and transparency to traditional administration.
In addition, Okumanini Baffour Asare Kyeahene II disclosed that the traditional authority will partner with non-governmental organizations, cultural institutions, and international development agencies to promote Affutuakwa’s rich cultural heritage. These partnerships, he said, will help attract cultural tourism, create economic opportunities, and position Affutuakwa as a model traditional area in Ghana.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the preservation and promotion of local customs, festivals, and traditional practices, stressing that culture must serve as a tool for unity and development rather than division.
The Omanhene called on chiefs, elders, and the youth to play active roles in safeguarding the values and traditions of Affutuakwa while embracing reforms that align with modern governance and development standards.
His remarks were met with widespread approval, as many residents described the vision as timely and necessary for ensuring that Affutuakwa’s cultural heritage remains strong, relevant, and beneficial to future generations.
