The Winkogo Abokerebiisi Women Group in the Talensi District of Ghana’s Upper East Region has emerged victorious in the Gulf Guinea Northern Regions Social Cohesion (SOCO) Project’s Intercommunity Cultural Festival. This event took place on Friday, May 9, 2025, at the Talensi Community Centre.
Recognized for their industriousness and talented cultural exhibitions, the Winkogo group was awarded the top prize in the festival. The results of the competition were as follows: the Winkogo Abokerebiisi Women Group secured first place, followed by the Wakii Goolop Group in second place, the Yameriga Gingan Group in third, the Baare Yangu Group in fourth, the Sherga Women Group in fifth, and the Bunni Seeyaga Group in sixth place.
This inaugural SOCO Intercommunity Cultural Festival was organized by the Gulf of Guinea Northern Regions Social Cohesion Project in collaboration with the Talensi District Assembly.
During the festival, Mr. Richard Dianu, the Environmental Social and Safeguard Officer with SOCO in the Upper East Region, addressed attendees. He emphasized that the purpose of the festival is to promote social cooperation through cultural activities, a key component of the social projects supported by the governments of Ghana, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, and Togo, along with the World Bank.
Mr. Dianu highlighted that the SOCO project aims to build infrastructure and support livelihoods while fostering trust, unity, and honesty. The focus is on youth—celebrating their creativity and ability to promote lasting peace. Cultural activities are central to this strategy, including traditional festivals, music and dance competitions, storytelling events, and community performances.
He noted, “Culture is powerful. It speaks a language that all generations understand. It connects the past with the present and fosters inclusion, tolerance, and peace.”
Through this cultural engagement, the project aims to strengthen social bonds among youth from diverse backgrounds, promote inter-ethnic understanding, preserve cultural heritage, provide platforms for youth expression and leadership, and support peaceful conflict resolution.
The District Chief Executive of the Talensi District Assembly, Mr. John Millim Naabwonya expressed gratitude to the SOCO project and the Talensi District Assembly for organizing the festival. He remarked on the joy and honour of participating in this celebration, which has brought the community together.
Mr. Naabwonya outlined that the SOCO project consists of five components, with the first having three sub-components focused on capital investment, local economic development, and promoting youth engagement and social cohesion activities. This aspect of the project identifies and implements youth talent programs that bring young people together to foster peace, unity, and community development.
The festival was a significant success, showcasing the vibrant culture and creativity of the Talensi District.
Source: mywordfmonline.com/ Gaspard Ayuureneeya