It was a day of splendor and cultural marvel as hundreds gathered in the ancient seaside town of Moree in the Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese District of the Central Region to commemorate the Abangye festival.
After a two-decade hiatus due to a prolonged chieftaincy dispute, the festival made a grand comeback last year.
In pre-colonial times, 'Abangye,' a Fanti word meaning "Fencing," involved the Asafo companies of the coastal town venturing into the bush, singing, and chanting, to cut sticks and fresh palm fronts used to fence the abodes of their gods.
Though the practice has evolved, the week-long event remains an essential cultural observance.
This year's Abangye festival centered around the theme "War against indiscipline, the role of citizens," with the aim of fostering unity and promoting rapid development.
The celebration featured a colorful durbar, where Chiefs and people paraded through the principal streets, accompanied by traditional militias (Asafo companies) like Bentsir, Alata, and Nkum, showcasing their traditional gymnastics.
Nana Obokese Ampah I, Regent of Moree, urged the people to embrace environmental cleanliness and unity as the foundation for development.
He called on the government to fulfill its promises, including constructing a Daycare Center at Moree landing beach and upgrading infrastructure in schools to enhance education.
The festival also recognized outstanding personalities, such as musician Okyeame Kwame and former Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mrs. Catherine Ablema Afeku, who were enstooled as Adwumapahen and Adwumapahenmaa in Moree, respectively.
Moree's history is steeped in legend, believed to have been founded by giants, Asebu Amanfi, Farnyi Kwegya, and hunter Adzekese.
These Egyptian giants established their kingdom in Moree, developing around Fort Nassau, the original fort on the then-Gold Coast.
The Abangye festival serves as a platform to cherish tradition, promote unity, and pave the way for the community's growth and progress.