The Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, has led a section of Members of Parliament from Northern Ghana and a delegation of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to Bawku ahead of the annual Samanpiid Festival.

The visit forms part of efforts to engage traditional authorities, community leaders and residents as preparations intensify for the culturally significant festival.

The delegation, made up of MPs from the Upper East, Upper West, Northern, Savannah and North East Regions, paid courtesy calls on key traditional leaders and stakeholders in the area.

Discussions focused on peace, unity and development, particularly in light of Bawku’s strategic importance and its history of tensions.

The Samanpiid Festival, which marks the end of the harvest season, is widely regarded as a symbol of resilience, gratitude and communal harmony.

Speaking during the visit, Mr Ayariga underscored the importance of sustaining peace in Bawku and its surrounding communities, stressing that development can only thrive in a stable environment.

He noted that the presence of MPs and party officials was also to demonstrate solidarity with the people and to reaffirm the NDC’s commitment to inclusive governance and grassroots engagement in the northern part of the country.

The delegation is expected to participate in activities related to the Samanpiid Festival and continue engagements with local leaders and youth groups.

Observers say the visit highlights the growing emphasis by political leaders on using cultural events as platforms to promote dialogue, national cohesion and development, especially in areas that have experienced long-standing challenges.