2025 Panafest/Emancipation:Assin South DCE Calls for Action on Environmental Protection
The 17th Pan-African Historical Theatre Festival (PANAFEST) and 27th Emancipation Day celebrations have been climaxed with a grand durbar at Assin Manso in the Central Region. The event, themed “Let us speak of reparative justice – Pan African artistic activism” and “Community development through environmental sustainability and tourism,” brought together chiefs, government officials, and the African Diaspora community.
Hon. Jonathan Birikorang, District Chief Executive for Assin South, emphasized the importance of environmental sustainability, highlighting the dangers of indiscriminate refuse disposal, water body destruction, deforestation, and hunting in forest reserves. He stressed that these practices undermine agriculture, food security, health, water, and economic growth, and urged citizens to commit to preserving natural resources for sustainable livelihoods.
“Our environment is our life, and it’s our responsibility to protect it for future generations,” Hon. Birikorang said. “We must take immediate action to address the destruction of our water bodies, forests, and wildlife habitats. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and our ancestors to preserve the natural beauty and resources of our land.”
The durbar featured traditional regalia, drumming, singing, and dancing, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Africa. Traditional authorities, led by Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, performed rituals at the Ancestral Graveyard to honor the ancestors and evoke their blessings.
The event was a vibrant celebration of African culture, with participants dressed in traditional attire and adorned with intricate designs and colors. The drumming and singing filled the air, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration.
The twin-festival aims to promote unity, cultural pride, and responsible governance, while commemorating the inhumane crimes of the past. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving natural resources and promoting sustainable development for the benefit of future generations.
“We must work together to build a better future for ourselves and our children,” Madam Gomashie said. “PANAFEST and Emancipation Day celebrations are not just about commemorating the past, but also about shaping our future and promoting responsible governance and sustainable development.”
The 2025 PANAFEST and Emancipation Day celebrations have set a powerful precedent for environmental sustainability and cultural preservation, and will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the communities involved.
