Festivals key to culture preservation and economic growth – Culture Enthusiast
Ayesiyinga explained that festivals are celebrated for various historical, religious, social, and cultural reasons.
Robert Ayesiyinga, a culture enthusiast, has emphasized that festivals remain a vital tool for preserving cultural heritage, strengthening community bonds, and stimulating local economic activities in the Upper East Region.
Speaking on Voices of Change, on Mike FM on Saturday, January 3, 2026, Ayesiyinga explained that festivals are celebrated for various historical, religious, social, and cultural reasons.
According to him, festivals serve as platforms for promoting peace and unity, which ultimately act as catalysts for development, while also attracting visitors who contribute to local economies.
“Festivals happen at particular times of the year for historical purposes, religious, social, or cultural heritage, and also to thank the gods for a bumper harvest and protection throughout the wet season.” He stated.
Ayesiyinga highlighted several festivals celebrated in the Upper East Region and the communities associated with them. He stressed that culture and language flourish when they are actively celebrated and showcased.
“Culture and language do not just survive; they thrive when we turn them into a celebration. When we showcase our artifacts and foods, bond, and build relationships and partnerships for development, we also spread our culture to other places.” He noted.
Ayesiyinga, however, expressed concern over the gradual adulteration of cultural practices, calling for the preservation of key elements such as traditional costumes, local foods, indigenous languages, and crafts.
He further advocated a return to the use of traditional weapons such as slings, bows, and arrows during festivals, noting that they are less offensive compared to modern weapons such as guns, which he described as weapons of mass destruction.
He further appealed for festival programmes to include dedicated sessions aimed at educating the youth on the dangers of social vices, drug abuse, and road accidents.
He also urged traditional authorities to lead by example and ensure discipline among their subjects, emphasizing that responsible leadership is key to safeguarding cultural values and promoting social development.
Mike 105.3FM | Navrongo | Cynthia Afaah
