Vice President Prof Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang has delivered a strong assurance to the farming communities of the Bono East Region, pledging government commitment to minimising post-harvest losses and boosting agricultural productivity under the flagship Feed Ghana programme.

She made the pledge on Saturday when she graced the grand climax of the Meko Bono Homecoming and Festival 2026 in Atebubu, where she was received with traditional pomp and pageantry.

The Vice President, who was the special guest of honour, used the platform to connect directly with the predominantly agrarian population, acknowledging their struggles and outlining tangible interventions to improve their livelihoods.

"We hear your concerns, and we are acting," Prof. Opoku Agyemang told the cheering crowd. "Through the Feed Ghana initiative, we are not only minimising post-harvest losses but also improving general agricultural productivity to create more jobs and generate substantial wealth for our people."

Her address struck a chord with the thousands of farmers gathered, who have long grappled with the challenge of losing significant portions of their harvest to poor storage and logistical constraints. The Vice President's assurance signals a renewed push by the government to make agriculture a more sustainable and profitable venture for the region's backbone workforce.

A celebration of heritage and unity

Beyond the political messaging, the Vice President took time to underscore the cultural significance of the Meko Bono festival, which has grown into a vital platform for celebrating the rich Bono heritage, reconnecting the diaspora with their roots, and fostering partnerships for tourism, investment, and community development.

She admonished the people to let the festival serve as a vessel for preserving history and tradition through togetherness.

"Let this festival preserve the history and tradition of the Bono people through togetherness, thereby creating partnerships for development," she added, drawing thunderous applause from the assembled chiefs, elders, and youth.

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Hosting the Vice President was HRM Ohempon Dr Yeboah Asiamah, the Atebubumanhene and Chairman of the Meko Bono Advisory Board, who welcomed her and the thousands of visitors with open arms.

In his address, the Paramount Chief emphasised the festival's growing relevance as more than a cultural showcase, but a strategic vehicle for sustainable community development.

"The Meko Bono spirit is the thread that binds us across generations," the Chief stated.

"We must leverage this unity to attract investment and build a prosperous future for our children."

Adding his voice, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr Nana Agyemang Badu II, President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, lauded the remarkable cohesion displayed by the Bono people, describing their togetherness as a shining example worthy of emulation across the nation.

"The togetherness we see here today is not by chance; it is the result of shared values and mutual respect," he remarked. "This is the kind of unity that builds nations, and I call on all Ghanaians to learn from the Bono example."

A spectacle of culture and colour

The festival grounds in Atebubu came alive with breathtaking cultural displays that captivated the Vice President and all in attendance. The thunderous rhythms of Fontomfrom drums filled the air, while gracefully choreographed Adowa dancers mesmerised onlookers with their intricate footwork and vibrant regalia.

From elders adorned in rich, hand-woven smocks to the energetic youth participating in traditional war dances, the event was a stunning reminder that Ghana's cultural heritage remains a living, breathing force that unites generations.

Looking ahead

As the sun dipped below the horizon over Atebubu, it was clear that the Meko Bono Homecoming 2026 had achieved far more than a cultural reunion. With the Vice President's agricultural assurances and the chiefs' rallying calls for unity, the people of Atebubu left the festival grounds not just with memories of a spectacular celebration, but with renewed hope for a future built on the solid foundation of their illustrious heritage.

The festival has once again proven that the Bono people are not merely preserving their past; they are actively shaping their future through participation, partnership, and unwavering togetherness.