Mr Charles Lwanga Puozuing, the Upper West Regional minister has stated that the region could only thrive in an atmosphere of peace to ensure the rapid development.
“Development thrives only where peace prevails. Let us continue to cherish unity, tolerance, and mutual respect. Let us resolve our differences through dialogue and traditional mechanisms rather than conflict.
The future we desire for Lambussie and the Upper West Region depends on our collective responsibility”, he said.
He made the call during the 25th celebration of the Mi-filee Gbero Festival, held at the Lambussie under the theme: “Promoting Peace and Unity among Our Diverse Cultures for Tourism and Economic Development.”
He charged sons and daughters of Lambussie, both at home and abroad, to contribute their resources, skills, and ideas to the development of their homeland.
Mr Charles Lwanga Puozuing, reaffirmed the government’s respect for traditional authority, particularly in land administration and conflict resolution.
“Traditional leaders remain key partners in maintaining peace and driving development,” he said and assured residents of the government’s commitment to developing the region.
The regional Minister noted that in a rapidly changing world, festivals such as Mifile serve as anchors, preserving the language, customs, and moral values while offering a platform to discuss development, peace and the future of our youth.
He commended the chiefs and elders of Lambussie for sustaining their proud tradition and using it as a tool for unity and progress.
He congratulated the Chiefs, Elders, and people of the Lambussie Traditional Area for the successful organisation of this year’s Mifilee Festival”.
Kuoro Issaka Zeng’eh Kazie Tenjie II, the Paramount Chief of the Lambussie traditional area, called on residents to uphold peace and strictly adhere to customary laws, describing unity as the foundation for sustainable development in the area.
Kuoro Tenjie II noting that Lambussie was home to more than 10 ethnic groups who had lived together harmoniously for generations.
The Paramount Chief expressed concern over recent disturbances involving sections of the Dagara community, which he said threatened the long-standing peace in the area.
He disclosed that mediation efforts by the Upper West Regional Peace Council in April 2025 resulted in resolutions on land use and customary practices, but some settlers had refused to accept the outcomes.
“We will no longer tolerate actions that undermine stability in this traditional area. All residents, regardless of ethnicity, must respect Sisaala customs on land acquisition, building, and funeral rites. Anyone who defies these norms will face the full force of customary sanctions and the law”, he said.
Kuoro Tenjie II further cautioned external elites whom he accused of instigating rebellious acts saying, “No one, whether local or from outside, is above our laws and traditions.”
Touching on development challenges, the Paramount Chief appealed to the Presidency to expedite work on the Lambussie District hospital under the Agenda 111 programme, which he said has stalled despite being more than 70 per cent complete.
Kuoro Tenjie II also announced plans to establish a District Museum and convene a Development Forum in 2026 to mobilise resources for the growth of the Lambussie Traditional area.
He also called for urgent intervention on the Brutu Junction, Suke Road and the Lambussie to Billaw road, both delayed due to payment challenges.
Prof Titus K. Beyuo, the Member of Parliament for Lambussie, described the festival as a rallying point for the youth and announced the completion of the Lambussie Community Library. He also pledged GH¢100,000 towards community development and medical outreach initiatives.
Mr Moses Dramani Luri, who chaired the function urged parents to prioritise the teaching of the Sisaali language to younger generations saying, “When people lose their mother tongue, they lose their stories, values, and wisdom”.
The celebration climaxed with colourful cultural drumming and dancing, alongside a fundraising session for local development.
