THE EFFUTU OMA ODEFE NEENYI GHARTEY VII PRESERVING EFFUTU’S HERITAGE: MASQUERADE FESTIVAL IN FOCUS (FANCY DRESS 2026).

In just a matter of hours, the Effutu municipality will be celebrating its 69th Winneba Masquerade Festival, scheduled for Thursday, January 1, 2026. This highly recognized event plays a significant role in the development of the municipality, particularly in strengthening the tourism base, economic and social ties between influential individuals in Effutu.

It serves right to take the opportunity to extend a warm congratulations to the Omanhene of the Effutu Traditional Area, Neenyi Ghartey VII. Not only is he known as Effutu Oma Odefe, the 16th King on the Otuano Royal Stool House, but he also serves as the Chancellor of the University of Education, Winneba (UEW). His foresight in preserving this rich cultural tradition and providing a platform for its display is commendable.

Sorrowfully, in some municipalities, recreational grounds are sold off for individual use, and even some have sold theirs for Galamsey activities with no place left for event exhibitions, however, this makes the difference clear that our

Omanhene, Neenyi Ghartey VII is indeed a concerned Paramount Chief, and a leader who succeeded to protect the resources for Effutu which his forefathers fought for, upholding the pride of Effutu with peace.

The Winneba Masquerade festival has a positive impact on the constituents and interested participants. The carefully preserved nature of the event has a lasting effect, and it would be remiss not to mention the significant role that fancy dress plays in this festival. Not only does it create economic opportunities for food vendors, but it also gives the government of Ghana a chance to showcase the strength of the cedi, which currently is around 10.6 cedis against a dollar.

Additionally, the festival has an educational aspect, as it allows for the participation and judgment of concerned individuals from all over the world.

Furthermore, this event promotes social ties and fosters good relationships, attracting people cum investors from all walks of life to the municipality for business. The benefits of this festival are numerous and essential, making it a vital part of the annual festive season in the Effutu municipality.

Omo Adefe, the entire municipality is grateful to have the Winneba Masquerade festival as a highlight of its New Year celebrations, with a reserved park. This event has had a profoundly positive impact on the lives of individuals over the years, and we look forward to its continuation for many years to come.

Omo Adefe, May You Live Long.

Happy New Year, Neenyi. Wonkwaso!

Kweku Bortsie Idan-Yesuba.

(Resident, Donkoryiem-Obrawugum Electoral Area,0245869717). I write: