Wiase, a community in the Sene West District of the Bono East Region, has marked this year’s Ekwabena Yam Festival with a strong call on the youth to prioritise skills development, education and self-improvement over the pursuit of quick money.
Addressing the gathering, the Gyaasehene and Acting President of the Wiase Traditional Council, Nana Amo Kwasi, urged the youth to desist from drug abuse and other negative behaviours, and instead work towards building a sustainable future through discipline and hard work.
He stressed that true progress for young people lies in consistency, patience and the willingness to embrace challenges, rather than shortcuts to success. Nana Amo Kwasi encouraged the youth to pursue their passions, develop a growth mindset and learn from failure, noting that skills and intelligence are developed through dedication, not talent alone.
He also lamented the absence of a substantive paramount chief, which he said has affected the community’s focus on long-term development and engagement with some government initiatives.
The Kyidomhene of the Wiase Traditional Council, Nana Okum Asono Adu Baah, popularly known as “Dr Baah Herbal,” echoed similar sentiments, urging the youth to take initiative early in life to build a strong foundation for the future. He emphasised that success is not a race, but a process that requires persistence and continuous capacity building.
Nana Adu Baah advised the youth to focus on learning new skills, reading and personal development, rather than chasing quick money. He further encouraged them to prioritise their time wisely, avoid unproductive activities and seek opportunities to add value to themselves and their community.
Adding her voice, the Gyaase Hemaa, Nana Amobi II, speaking on behalf of the Wiase Paramount Queen, Nana Akua Amobea, expressed concern about some parental practices in the community. She criticised parents who demand money from their underage children, describing the practice as a major contributor to teenage pregnancies and drug abuse.
She called on parents to take greater responsibility for the proper upbringing and guidance of their children to ensure their future success.
The Ekwabena Yam Festival is an annual celebration of harvest and unity for the people of the Wiase Traditional Area, and this year’s event was used as a platform to reflect on social challenges and the role of leadership, parents and youth in community development.
Source :www.kumasimail.com /Oheneba Kesse Brempong-Asare
