Accra Chapter - Nawuri's celebrates Yam Festival (Kekyoji)
Channel: Nankwe Online Tv
Date: 2020-10-01

The chiefs and people of the Nawuri's found in the Greater Accra Region celebrated their annual "Kekyoji" (Yam Festival).

As the name suggests, this festival is held in honor of the humble yam - a tasty vegetable and one of Ghana’s top exports.

The Yam Festival is a joyful event that gives thanks for the harvest and God’s ongoing protection; locals also use the event to invoke further blessings and guidance for the year ahead. 

During the festival, music and dancing are key features; drumming is carried out by many of the locals, to which dancing is performed, often in public spaces where crowds look on and cheer. The atmosphere is one of joy and energy as everyone heads out into the streets to celebrate.

Locals get dressed in their best outfits to mark the event - many people wear clothing made from traditional Kente cloth and smocks, and gather in the main parts of town to greet their chiefs. 

The chiefs are either carried through the crowds or process on foot to greet the highest chief of the area.

The event is one of which the Nawuri people express their gratitude for the harvest and look forward to what the year ahead will hold.

Many Ghanaians who have moved away from the chief town will have return to mark this special celebration with their loved ones and enjoy a family meal together.

As well as meals served at home, there are food stalls to browse wherever there are celebrations taking place - look out for the yam dishes on the menu to taste this famous export in a variety of guises!