The Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, has been enstooled as Mpuntu Hemaa (Development Queen Mother) of the Abura Traditional Area, with a pledge to champion inclusive and sustainable development for the people.
The colourful traditional ceremony, marked by rich displays of Fante culture, drumming and regalia, was held under the auspices of the Paramount Chief of Abura, His Royal Majesty Emintsinminim Otu XI. Upon her enstoolment, Prof. Browne Klutse took the stool name Nana Ama Kumi I.
In her acceptance speech, Nana Ama Kumi I described her new role as a call to collective action rather than a personal honour, stressing that meaningful development requires unity, partnership and shared responsibility.
“What matters now is not the title, but the work that lies ahead, and this work cannot be done alone,” she said. “I accept this role as a collective call to action. I humbly ask for your loyalty, partnership, patience and honest counsel. Hold me accountable, encourage me when I am right and correct me when I stray.”
She underscored the importance of culture as a foundation for development, pledging to promote the preservation of Abura’s traditions while embracing modern tools to document, protect and revive cultural heritage, particularly for the benefit of the youth.
“Development is not something delivered fully packaged from outside,” Nana Ama Kumi I noted. “As Mpuntu Hemaa, I see myself as a facilitator, a convener and an advocate. I will listen, unite our people, champion our ideas and work tirelessly to advance our shared aspirations.”
She also expressed her intention to work closely with central government through the District Chief Executive and the Member of Parliament for Abura Asebu Kwamankese, Mr. Felix Kwakye Ofosu, to drive development initiatives across the traditional area.
“I see the Abura Traditional Area as a network of communities striving for better livelihoods. My role is to connect local initiatives to national and international opportunities and help turn individual efforts into collective achievements,” she added.
Speaking at the ceremony, His Royal Majesty Emintsinminim Otu XI described the Abura State as the leading state of the Borbor Mfantse, comprising Abura Etsifi (North) and Abura Anaafo (South), with a total of 228 towns and villages.
The Paramount Chief praised Nana Ama Kumi I for her accomplishments in environmental protection, climate action and science, saying her enstoolment was well deserved.
“For it is indeed the person who climbs the good tree who deserves to be pushed to the crown,” he remarked.
He called on the new Mpuntu Hemaa to use her influence and expertise to spearhead development in the area and assured her of the full support and cooperation of the traditional authority as she begins her journey in the service of the Abura people.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
