The Upper West Council of Zongo Tribal Chiefs has organised the maiden Wa Zongo Intercultural Festival in Wa.
The historic ceremony, which took place on Saturday, April 4, 2026, brought together diverse ethnic groups including the Youriba community, Wangara Community, and the Fulbe community in a colourful celebration of unity, culture, and peaceful co-existence. Others include the Busanga, Kotokoli, Zambarima, Dagomba, Mossi, and Gusinshi communities, respectively.
Issah Nurah Danwana, the Wa Metropolitan Chief Executive in his keynote address described the festival as a “powerful reminder” of the shared identity and harmony that define Zongo communities.
He noted that the Zongo enclave in Wa has long stood as a symbol of unity in diversity, where people of different ethnic backgrounds, languages, and traditions coexist peacefully. According to the mayor, the festival highlights the strength of cultural differences, emphasising that such diversity should be seen as an asset that enriches society rather than a barrier.
Danwana commended residents of the Zongo community for their significant contributions to the growth of the Wa Metropolis and the country at large, particularly in areas such as trade, education, religion, and community leadership.
He said their resilience, discipline, and strong communal spirit continue to inspire development efforts.
He reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to inclusive development, assuring residents that ongoing interventions would address key challenges in infrastructure, sanitation, education, and economic opportunities.
Touching on national interventions, he credited the leadership of John Dramani Mahama for policies aimed at improving the welfare of Zongo Communities, including scholarship opportunities, reduction in Hajj fares, and initiatives such as the proposed Women Development Bank and the Soyeya Fund to alleviate poverty.
The Mayor also revealed plans, in collaboration with the Zongo Development Fund, to construct an astroturf facility to enhance sports development in the area.
While celebrating the cultural vibrancy of the festival, the Chief of Wa Zongo, Sarki Alhaji Sidik Gewaa in an address delivered on his behalf, by Shiek Dan Hassan expressed deep concern over the increasing incidence of drug abuse among the youth in the area. Whilst lauding the mayor for the bold steps taken to fight the canker, he appealed for urgent measures to address the menace.
He also called for improved lighting in some parts of the community to enhance safety and security, citing it as a key factor in preventing social vices, including drug abuse.
The festival, which featured traditional music, dance, and local cuisines, also served as a platform to educate younger generations on values such as unity, tolerance, respect, and diversity.
Story by Ibrahim Abubakari Wangara
