The Gurma community in the Greater Accra region held a durbar last Saturday to commemorate the 17th anniversary of the installation of Chief Suleman Alhassan at the Wembley Astro Turf, Kotobabi, Accra.

The durbar, organised by the Nataani Association in collaboration with the Greater Accra Gurma Council of Chiefs, showcased a colourful display of Gurma culture through traditional music and dance performances.

Addressing the occasion, Lawyer Dubik Mahama, who was the guest of honour, highlighted the theme of the event, which focused on fostering a shared cultural identity among people of Gurma descent across West Africa. He emphasised the importance of unity among the Gurma, Moba, and Bimoba communities, stating, "Unity cannot be achieved without first establishing peace and laying a solid foundation rooted in cultural preservation."

He explained the historical ties of the Gurma people to the powerful empires of West Africa and the divisions created by borders drawn during the colonial era. He called for a renewed focus on teaching Gurma languages, traditions, and values to the younger generation, which he underscored as crucial for maintaining a cohesive community.

During the event, the formation of the National Association of Bimoba, Moba, and Gurma (NABMAG) was announced, with Chief Suleman Alhassan playing a key role as a founding member. The association aims to unite the Gurma people across national boundaries and promote cultural and educational development. "Unity is strength. Let us work together to preserve our identity and build a brighter future for future generations," Lawyer Mahama stated.

The event also featured the installation of new sub-chiefs and sub-queens from various areas in Accra. The newly installed leaders received certificates and pledged their commitment to serve the community with dedication.

The Gurma Youth Association (GYA) was also highlighted as a youth-focused group championing the cause of the Gurma community. Speaking on behalf of the association, Mr. Issa Abubakar outlined their goals, which include promoting skill acquisition, fostering economic development, and ensuring that the youth remain connected to their cultural roots.

"Our mission is to empower the youth to take an active role in the community’s development," Mr. Issa said. "Through education and skill-building programs, we aim to create opportunities for our young people to thrive and contribute to national development."

The chairman of the Nataani Association, Mr. Abdul Rahman Ali, described the 17th anniversary as a reflection of how far the Gurma community has come under Chief Suleman Alhassan's leadership. Speaking after the event, Mr. Ali, who also doubled as the program's coordinator, stressed the need for the community to unite with a shared purpose.

"This program is about setting collective goals and strengthening ties both locally and across five African countries where Gurma people are present," he said.

He also announced plans to launch an endowment fund to support brilliant but needy students and to provide assistance to those without access to healthcare and other essential services. "The endowment fund is our way of ensuring that no one in our community is left behind, especially those who are most vulnerable," Mr. Ali explained.

Mr. Ali also outlined several community-focused initiatives aimed at bridging gaps within the fragmented Gurma community in Accra and beyond. He underscored the need for regular cultural engagements, where members of the community are encouraged to visit their ancestral homes to pay homage.

This initiative, he said, will be a crucial step in preserving the rich Gurma culture and cultivating a sense of belonging among younger generations. "Occasionally, we will organise programs that bring our people back home, reinforcing our rich cultural heritage," Mr. Ali added.

Representatives from the office of the Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia, the National Chief Imam, Dr. Nuhu Osman Shaributu, and the Ambassador of Burkina Faso, Mr. David Kabre, were among the distinguished guests in attendance.

Prominent Zongo chiefs, diplomats, and government officials also graced the occasion, including representatives from the Togo, Niger, and Benin embassies, as well as the National Coordinator of the Zongo Development Fund, Hon. Ben Abdalla, and Greater Accra Regional Police Commander, COP Dr. Baba Gariba.