By Christian ABURIME
Anambra State governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, accompanied by top government officials and cultural leaders, attended the state’s New Yam Festival today.
The event was held at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka and marked the beginning of the yam harvesting season, a crucial crop that is a staple food throughout the state.
Addressing the crowd of locals gathered, the Governor stressed the importance of agriculture in the state’s economy, especially the age-long Igbo value of “hard work pays”.
The Governor said that the government was committed to encouraging people to farm to feed, which has the potential to create jobs, increase revenue and crash the food prices in the market.
“This is the pre-eminent cultural day we have in Igbo land. We have a special celebration for new yams.
“Today, Anambra as a state, officially unveiled the new yam festival. Several communities had done so before now.
“The symbolism of it, is that we are celebrating it as a state.
“Here, we have the traditional rulers representing the three senatorial zones. We use this to signify yam as the king of crops.
“Some time ago, we launched the farm to feed initiative in the midst of the hunger protest. Complaining about hunger is not the Igbo tradition.
“I encourage you to look for a space around where you live and cultivate what to eat. This will reduce the prices and of goods in the market.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Culture, Tourism and Entertainment, Comrade Don Onyenji described the event as significant.
“During the event last year, Mr Governor took and expressed interest in the festival and decided to approve for this year’s edition.
“This event is important because some of our children don’t know some of these traditions, which informed the event”; said the Commissioner.
The New Yam Festival is a cultural event that has been celebrated in the state for generations but not as a state function before Governor Soludo came onboard. It is steeped in tradition and folklore, with colourful displays of music, dance, and costumes.
The Festival provided an opportunity for the Governor to interact with ndị Anambra.
There were dance and masquerade displays, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the state.
In conclusion, the atmosphere at the New Yam Festival was joyful and festive, with locals expressing their appreciation for the Governor’s commitment to the agricultural sector.
As the Governor departed, he was surrounded by well-wishers, who wished him well and expressed their continued support for his administration.
