The Centre for National Culture (CNC) has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and promoting Ghana’s rich cultural heritage through strengthened collaboration with traditional authorities and other stakeholders. 

Upper East Regional Director of the CNC, Collins Ahmed-Edwards, gave the assurance during the 11th anniversary celebration of Naba Raymond Atogumdeya Akwara III, Paramount Chief of the Sirigu Traditional Area in the Kassena-Nankana West District. 

The event also featured the launch of the 2026 Azuko Festival of the chiefs and people of Sirigu, scheduled for December 30. 

The festival will be celebrated on the theme "Celebrating Our Heritage through Peace and Security: Stakeholders as Catalysts for Sirigu’s Development." 

Mr Ahmed-Edwards said the festival underscored the importance of safeguarding peace and preserving cultural values as essential pillars for the community’s sustainable development. 

"As the Centre for National Culture, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving and promoting Ghana’s rich cultural heritage," he stated. 

He said the Centre would continue to work closely with traditional authorities, district assemblies, educational institutions, artists, cultural practitioners, and community-based organisations to promote cultural education, preserve heritage sites, support the creative industry, and encourage cultural tourism across the Upper East Region. 

Describing culture as the foundation of identity and a catalyst for peace, unity, and sustainable development, Mr Ahmed-Edwards stressed that meaningful development could only flourish where peace prevailed, security was guaranteed, and cultural values were respected. 

"Sustainable development can only flourish where peace prevails, security is assured, and cultural values are respected and promoted," he said. 

He noted that culture extended beyond music, dance, food, and traditional attire, describing it as "the foundation of our identity and the guiding force that shapes our values, strengthens social cohesion, and preserves the wisdom of our ancestors." 

The Regional Director commended the people of Sirigu for preserving a rich cultural heritage that had earned national and international recognition, citing the community’s traditional mural art, pottery, basket weaving, storytelling, indigenous architecture, and hospitality as unique cultural assets with significant economic potential. 

He said those cultural resources could create jobs, attract tourists, empower women and young people, and improve livelihoods when supported by sustained peace and security. 

"Peace creates the environment for education, investment, entrepreneurship, tourism, and innovation to thrive. Security gives confidence to investors, visitors, and residents alike. It is therefore our collective responsibility to preserve the peace that Sirigu has long enjoyed," he added. 

Mr Ahmed-Edwards called on all stakeholders to play active roles in promoting peace and strengthening social cohesion to accelerate the development of the community. 

He urged traditional authorities to continue safeguarding customs and fostering unity while encouraging parents to instil discipline and moral values in their children. 

He also appealed to the youth to serve as ambassadors of peace by embracing productive ventures and preserving their cultural heritage. 

"I also wish to encourage the youth of Sirigu to appreciate their cultural heritage. Learn your language, preserve your traditions, acquire indigenous artistic skills, and embrace innovation that adds value to your culture. The future of our heritage rests in your hands," he advised. 

Mr Ahmed-Edwards expressed optimism that the 2026 Azuko Festival would provide a platform for dialogue, reconciliation, investment promotion, environmental conservation, cultural exchange, and inclusive development. 

He commended the chiefs, elders, organising committee, sponsors, development partners, and volunteers for their commitment to the festival and urged residents to renew their resolve to preserve their cultural heritage while working together to advance the socio-economic development of Sirigu and the Upper East Region.