The kingmakers of the Abutia Traditional Area in the Ho West District of the Volta Region have enstooled a new Mankrado and a Queen Mother.

The ceremony marks a significant transition in the traditional leadership, with residents hoping it will spur development in the agrarian community.

The Senior Mankrado of the Abutia Traditional Area, Togbe Keh Kwesi VIII, and Mama Kehbia III of the Gbakoe Clan were enstooled in accordance with the customs and traditions of the Abutia people.

In his maiden address, Togbe Keh Kwesi VIII called on the community to work together to harness development, emphasising that "our forefathers will not be happy if we do not improve what we inherited from them."

He committed to operating an open-door administration and pledged to collaborate with other traditional authorities to promote development in the Adaklu enclave.

Togbe Keh Kwesi VIII also expressed his intention to advocate for improvements in education standards in the area by enhancing infrastructure and accessibility.

He suggested a review of land tenure systems to address conflicts that could disrupt peace in the community, urging chiefs to take centre stage.

Mama Kehbia of the Gbakoe Clan promised to collaborate with other Queen Mothers to empower women, children and the youth, identifying herself as a beacon of hope for the community.

The Paramount Chief of Abutia, Togbe Abutia Kodzo Gidi V, lamented how some Christian leaders associate traditional customs with Satanism, particularly in matters of chieftaincy.

He, therefore, urged churches to embrace and support customary practices in the communities where they operate.

“Churches must coexist peacefully with the community. They must understand that we exist alongside our traditions and customs. Those practices that needed to be redefined have been, and those that needed to be abolished have been,” he stated.