The Paramount Chief of Sefwi Anwiaso and President of the National House of Chiefs, Osenkese Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, has appealed to Government to reinstate land enforcement authority to traditional leaders, arguing that the role of chiefs in land administration remains critical for peace, order and sustainable development in their communities.

Speaking during the 2025 Eluo Festival celebration in the Sefwi Anwiaso Traditional Area, Western North Region, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II noted that although traditional lands have been placed under the Lands Ministry, chiefs continue to bear the responsibility of addressing land disputes and safeguarding communal lands. He stressed that without the proper enforcement mandate and the accompanying revenue allocations; chiefs are left handicapped while still being expected to resolve conflicts and protect community lands from illegal mining.

According to him, stool lands   have been placed under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resource, but when issues arise, they call on the chiefs to intervene, stating that, it was only fair and reasonable that land enforcement responsibilities and the revenues that come with them are restored to traditional authorities. He emphasized that this reinstatement would help strengthen accountability, improve land management and reduce disputes at the local level.

The President of the National House of Chiefs noted there was an urgent need for a more balanced governance arrangement that recognizes the indispensable role of traditional authorities in land administration, adding that effective collaboration between the state and chiefs is essential for development to thrive.

Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II also used the occasion to caution his chiefs against participating in illegal mining (galamsey), pledging to hand over any offenders to law enforcement agencies. He said, chiefs must lead by example, especially in matters relating to land protection and environmental stewardship.

Touching on the festival’s theme, “Our Heritage, Our People and Development,” the Paramount Chief urged the community to uphold their cultural identity in the face of increasing Western influence. He called on the youth to remain proud of their heritage and preserve the customs that define the people of Sefwi Anwiaso.

As part of his developmental agenda, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II launched the Ogyeahoho Educational Fund and ICT Project, designed to enhance educational opportunities and bridge the digital divide in the traditional area. Demonstrating personal commitment, he donated GH¢700,000 to support the initiative.

He expressed appreciation to Government; the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs; the Western North Regional Minister; the Municipal Chief Executive; staff of the National House of Chiefs; and the chiefs and people of Sefwi Anwiaso for their continuous support in advancing unity and development.

Source: Chantal Aidoo

Public Relations Unit, MLGCRA

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening Ghana’s chieftaincy institution as a strategic partner in national development. He made the remarks on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the colourful celebration of the 2025 Eluo Festival of the Sefwi Anhwiaso Traditional Area.

The festival, which is to celebrate abundance of Yam, was on the theme “Our Heritage, Our People, Our Development,” brought together traditional leaders, government officials, development partners, and thousands of indigenes who gathered to celebrate their cultural identity and renew their commitment to community development.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister praised the chiefs and people for preserving the Eluo Festival, describing it as a sacred symbol of nourishment, hard work, and renewal. He noted that Ghana’s cultural heritage remains a powerful pillar for national unity, social cohesion, and sustainable development.

Hon. Ibrahim outlined several ongoing government initiatives aimed at modernizing and strengthening the chieftaincy institution. Key among them is the review of the Chieftaincy Act, which seeks to restore the authority of chiefs to summon subjects who breach traditional laws and disturb community peace. He emphasized that such reforms are essential in reinforcing social order and reducing rising conflicts within communities.

He further announced that the Ministry was facilitating the validation and legalization of lines of succession to minimize ambiguity and reduce chieftaincy disputes, which continue to hamper stability and development in several traditional areas.

The Minister stated that government, recognizes the central role of Chiefs and Queen mothers in mobilizing communities, promoting discipline, enhancing environmental sanitation, and supporting local governance structures.

He added, it was for this reason that government is upgrading and constructing modern office complexes for the Houses of Chiefs, especially in the newly created regions, to provide a conducive environment for adjudication and administrative work.

The Minister called for renewed unity and discipline among community members, stressing that development thrives only in peaceful environments. He encouraged the traditional leaders and residents to support community-led environmental sanitation programmes and protect farmland, forests, and water bodies for future generations.

Hon. Ibrahim also conveyed warm regards from the President and commended the traditional authorities for their unwavering leadership and continued partnership with government.

The President of the National House of Chiefs and Paramount Chief of Sefwi Anhwiaso, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, hosted the event and it was graced by Paramount Chiefs of some Regional Houses of Chiefs, together with other Chiefs and Queen mothers and government delegation including the Guest of Honour, Dr. Daniel McKorley.

Source: Chantal Aidoo

Public Relations Unit, MLGCRA

President John Dramani Mahama on Tuesday, 18th November 2025, received Daasebre Kwaku Boateng III, Omanhene of the New Juaben Traditional Area and President of the Eastern Regional Traditional Council, at the Jubilee House for discussions on development priorities for the Eastern Region.
The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, joined and led the delegation, consistent with the Ministry’s mandate to strengthen collaboration between government and traditional authorities.
Welcoming the delegation, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim underscored the essential place of traditional leadership in Ghana’s governance structure and assured the Omanhene that the Ministry remains committed to working closely with the Eastern Regional Traditional Council. He encouraged them to present their concerns openly, noting that their requests would be fully considered at the highest level.
During the meeting, Daasebre Kwaku Boateng III congratulated President Mahama profusely on his assumption of office and expressed strong admiration for the President’s bold policy direction. He commended key initiatives including the stress-free education policy and the free tertiary education for persons with disabilities, describing them as essential interventions that were expanding opportunity across the country.
He also praised the President for maintaining peace and stability in the nation, stating that the calm and sense of direction currently being experienced is strengthening confidence in governance. The Omanhene expressed delight that the President’s policies were reshaping lives and reaffirmed the Traditional Council’s support for the national development agenda.
Daasebre further highlighted key priorities for the New Juaben Traditional Area, the completion of the Central Market, support for a new general hospital, and the continuation of the affordable housing project.
President Mahama welcomed the delegation’s concerns and reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling the development promises made to the region.
He noted: “We will not leave any community behind. New Juaben will receive the necessary attention, and we will work with your Traditional Council to ensure that every Ghanaian feels the impact of our collective progress.”
The meeting underscored the strong partnership between government and traditional leadership and reflected the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to building a governance system that listens, collaborates, and delivers for all regions.

Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann
MLGCRA PR UNIT