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Techiman to launch BDA Zone on October 27

Abdul Malik Guerm
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Techiman to launch BDA Zone on October 27

Techiman, a city boasting a significant Bissa community, is poised to officially launch its Bissa Development Association (BDA) zone after years of building a substantial membership base.

The upcoming launch follows a series of visits by the national BDA to Techiman, during which the association conducted sensitisation efforts to educate the local Bissa community about strengthening the BDA at grassroots and regional levels.

The launch event, featuring cultural activities, marks a crucial step in the association’s expansion and community engagement efforts.

BDA Abdul Malik, the Deputy Secretary, had visited Techiman last year as part of the sensitization efforts.

The establishment of regional and zonal chapters is part of the broader reorganisation agenda set by the Gutare Zanni administration.

According to BDA’s strategic goals, a community qualifies for zonal status if it can register a minimum of 25 members as part of its decentralisation processes, aimed at uniting and strengthening the association across various regions.

However, Techiman’s membership significantly surpasses this threshold, underscoring the strong presence and engagement of the Bissa community in the area.

It has long been recognised for its substantial Bissa population, which has played a crucial role in Bissa affairs and contributed significantly to the development of the fraternity in various ways.

The official launch of the BDA zone in Techiman will formalise its status within the association’s structure, enhancing coordination of development efforts, preserving Bissa culture, and fostering unity among community members.

Notably, the new Techiman BDA zone will be considered part of the Bono Ahafo region within the association’s framework.

This alignment reflects the BDA’s decision to maintain the old regional demarcation of Ghana rather than adopting the country’s more recent administrative divisions.

Having the Techiman Zone is a big step in BDA’s plan to create a stronger network of Bissa communities across Ghana.

As preparations for the launch continue, community members and BDA officials alike are anticipating a vibrant celebration that will showcase Bissa culture and traditions while highlighting the association’s commitment to progress and development.

Ashalaja Cultural Troop dazzle crowds at Greater Accra Sukuma

Abdul Malik Guerm
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Ashalaja Cultural Troop dazzle crowds at Greater Accra Sukuma

The inaugural Sukuma festival in Greater Accra reverberated with cultural vibrancy as the Ashalaja Cultural Troop took centre stage, delivering a spellbinding performance that became the rhythmic heartbeat of the event.

The troop, composed entirely of performers under 13 years old, swayed and leaped to the pulsating beats of the popular Bissa war song “kabriyo,” etching unforgettable moments in the maiden celebration.

The young dancers’ fluid movements and rhythmic footwork captivated the audience, powerfully demonstrating how the new generation is infusing vitality into Bissa traditions while showcasing their deep cultural immersion.

Spectators were visibly enthralled by the children’s dedication and prowess, expressing awe at their ability to execute complex traditional choreography with precision and grace.

Held on Saturday at the Alajo Astroturf, the festival saw these young cultural ambassadors bridge the generational gap with their mastery of intricate Bissa dances.

Alongside the invited Obuase dancing troop, the cultural troops delivered a mesmerizing spectacle that particularly enhanced the outdooring ceremony of Kir Salisu Dabre IV, transforming it into a symphony of movement and color.

Adding to the melodic mosaic of the celebration, musician Queenzy Baby electrified the audience with contemporary Bissa music. Her performance provided a modern counterpoint to the traditional dances, showcasing the dynamic evolution of Bissa cultural expression. The fusion of ancestral rhythms with contemporary beats created a sonic landscape that resonated across the venue.

The Sukuma festival, introduced in 2022, is a recent addition to the Bissa cultural calendar, complementing the long-standing Zekula festival held annually on Easter Day in Kulungungu, the ancestral capital of the Bissa people in Ghana’s Upper East region.

It offers flexibility for localized celebrations across various Bissa diaspora communities. progress.

Full text: BDA Chairman’s address at maiden Greater Accra Sukuma

Abdul Malik Guerm
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Full text: BDA Chairman’s address at maiden Greater Accra Sukuma

KEYNOTE ADDRESS AT GREATER ACCRA SUKUMA, HELD ON 5TH OCTOBER, 2024 AT THE ALAJO ASROTURF PARK, ACCRA BY ALHAJI SHAIBU MUSAH GUTARE (ESQ.), NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, BISSA DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION (BDA)

Mr. Chairman, who doubles as the Lemagan of Bissa Woo,

The President of the Gt. Accra Region Council of Bissa Chiefs, H.R.H, Kir S. Dabre,

Members of the Greater Accra Region Council of Bissa Chiefs,

Council of Zongo Chiefs Present

Hon. Members of Parliament Present,

Members of the National Executives Committee (NEC) present,

Invited Chiefs Present,

Religious Leaders Present,

Invited Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen.

Introduction

It gives me great pleasure to celebrate with you this afternoon, the maiden Greater Accra Bissa Sukuma 2024. I convey to you all, warm regards from the entire people of Bissa, who are sometimes known by their nickname, Busanga. Just like MTN, the Bissa people can be found ‘everywhere you go’. The crowd gathered here have representation of Bissas from all the 16 regions of Ghana.

Mr. Chairman, Sukuma in the Bissa Language means coming together. It is a durbar initiated by the Bissa community in the Greater Accra Region to celebrate our culture and unity. The theme for this year’s celebration is: “Preserving Our Culture and Building Unity to Promote Peace Towards Election 2024—The Role of All Citizens”.

Mr. Chairman, despite living far away from our homeland of Bawku, we consider it important to continue to hold on to our culture and preserve our identity. Traditionally, the Bissa people are known to be very hardworking, especially in the area of vegetable production and many other crops, especially groundnuts, which we believe was domesticated by our ancestors. Most of the vegetables we consume in our homes are the handiwork of our vegetable farmers. We are known to be very honest people who can be trusted with other people’s properties and investments. It is therefore not surprising that the Bissa man is always the preferred candidate for positions such as watchman or security. These virtues, coupled with other cultural aspects such as the Bissa language, music and dance, are treasures that we must endeavor to preserve and pass on to our generations yet unborn.

Mr. Chairman, Bissa unity has come a long way since the formation of the Bissa Youth Association in the 1980s, which metamorphosed into the Bissa Development Association (BDA) in 2010. The BDA in collaboration with the various Regional Councils of Bissa Chiefs, have been engaging various Bissa communities across the country to ensure that there is unity among us and to promote peaceful co-existence with our neighbours. The peace loving nature of the Bissa people has not been achieved on a silver platter. It is a cause the BDA and the Bissa chiefs continue to pursue in order to maintain this enviable record. We therefore wish to assure the good people of Accra and all other host towns and cities across the country that we do not take your hospitality for granted. We forever owe you all, a debt of gratitude for the love shown us.

As the campaigns for election 2024 intensify, the BDA, the Council of Chiefs, and the entire Bissa people have a bigger task to remind ourselves of the need to ensure peace before, during, and after the elections. There is no reason why we can co-exist peacefully for the past three (3) years, eight (8) months, and only use the short election period to destroy the beautiful relationships and country we built together. As citizens of Ghana, we all have a responsibility to preserve and develop the country entrusted to us by our forebears, so that we can transfer onto our children and future generations, a better Ghana than we came to meet.

We therefore appeal to our political leaders to continue to preach their messages devoid of intemperate language. The Electoral Commission must also endeavor to live above perceptions of biases and favoritism, for these are the necessary ingredients to engender the trust and cooperation of all citizens.

Mr. Chairman, Let us hold on to our rich culture, unite our people to co-exist peacefully with their various communities, especially, before, during, and after the 2024 elections. Let us all remember that we owe our children and the future generation, the duty of handing over to them, a more peaceful, united, and prosperous Ghana than we met.

Thank you and God/Allah bless us all.

Bissa Woo, Bissam

Zekula N’panga

Bissas in Greater Accra outdoor new Chief at maiden Sukuma festival

Abdul Malik Guerm
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0
Bissas in Greater Accra outdoor new Chief at maiden Sukuma festival

The Greater Accra Bissa community marked a significant milestone on Saturday with the celebration of their first-ever Sukuma festival, using the occasion to officially introduce their new chief to the public.

The celebration was a spectacular display of Bissa culture, featuring traditional music, dance, and cuisine, marking a significant milestone in their cultural calendar.

Held at the Alajo Astroturf, the vibrant event drew thousands of attendees who gathered to witness the formal introduction of Kir Salisu Ali Dabre IV, the newly installed president of the Greater Accra Council of Bissa Chiefs.

The festival, organised by the Greater Accra Bissa Development Association (BDA) under the auspices of the Greater Accra Council of Bissa Chiefs, showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Bissa people. Various Bissa groups took turns to greet the chief in a colourful procession, adding to the festive atmosphere of the day.

Kir Salisu Ali Dabre IV, who arrived from the United States for the occasion, made his first public appearance since his installation in April this year. His presence added an extra layer of significance to the event, as it marked the beginning of his leadership following the passing of his predecessor, the late Dabre Mohammed Ali Dabre III. His participation heightened the anticipation and excitement surrounding the festivities.

It was under the theme: “Preserving Our Culture and Building Unity to Promote Peace Towards Election 2024—The Role of All Citizens.”

In his keynote address, the National Chairman of the BDA Shaibu Gutare Zanni, showed gratitude to the landowners of Accra for their wonderful hospitality to the Bissa people.

“The BDA, in collaboration with the various Regional Councils of Bissa Chiefs, has been engaging various Bissa communities across the country to ensure that there is unity among us and to promote peaceful coexistence with our neighbours,” he said.

“The peace-loving nature of the Bissa people has not been achieved on a silver platter. It is a cause the BDA and the Bissa chiefs continue to pursue in order to maintain this enviable record.

“We therefore wish to assure the good people of Accra and all other host towns and cities across the country that we do not take your hospitality for granted. We forever owe you all, a debt of gratitude for the love shown us.”

The Sukuma festival, established in 2022, is a cultural celebration designed specifically for Bissa diaspora communities. Unlike the annual Zekula festival held in Kulungungu, Sukuma allows local Bissa groups outside their ancestral homeland to set their own dates for cultural gatherings.

This flexibility enables dispersed Bissa communities to maintain strong connections to their heritage and roots.

The Greater Accra Sukuma festival is particularly noteworthy as it is only the third such celebration since the festival’s inception, with the Ashanti region having hosted the previous two.

This event underscores the growing importance of maintaining cultural connections for diaspora communities in an increasingly globalised world.

As the festival concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of cultural pride and community spirit.

The successful outdoor of Kir Salisu Ali Dabre IV and the vibrant celebrations have set a positive tone for future Sukuma festivals in Greater Accra, promising to strengthen the bonds within the Bissa community for years to come.

John Mahama donates GHS 5,000 to Bissas at Sukuma festival

Abdul Malik Guerm
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John Mahama donates GHS 5,000 to Bissas at Sukuma festival

Former President of Ghana and Flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has donated 5,000 Ghanaian cedis (GHS) to the inaugural Sukuma festival for the Greater Accra Bissa community.

The cultural celebration was held on Saturday, 5 October, at the Alajo Astro Turf in the nation’s capital.

Mustapha Abubakar, a member of Mr Mahama’s campaign team, delivered both the donation and a speech on behalf of the NDC leader.

In his address, Mr Abubakar highlighted Mahama’s plans for developing Ghana, including the much-touted 24-hour economy, which he says is a game changer. He quoted the former president:

“Our vision for a 24-hour economy will create more jobs, boost productivity, and drive sustainable growth,” he said. “This initiative, along with our other development plans, will transform Ghana and improve the lives of all our citizens, including the Bissa community.”

Abubakar also reiterated Mahama’s commitment to peace and unity, quoting a comprehensive statement made by the former president:

“Mr Mahama has consistently called for peace and unity throughout the electoral process, urging Ghanaians to ‘show the world that our democracy is mature by exercising our rights peacefully, respecting the choices of others, and remembering that Ghana is bigger than any individual or party.'”

Mahama has a long-standing relationship with the Bissa community, notably his close association with the late Dr Mustapha Ahmed, who served in various ministerial capacities under both the Mills and Mahama administrations from 2009 to 2016.

Mr Abubakar emphasised that the Bissa vote is crucial for Mahama’s return to power. He appealed to Bissas both in their home region of Upper East and those in other parts of Ghana to give Mahama their mandate.

Political Party reps under one canapy

The event also saw political engagement from both major parties, with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) making a separate donation at the colourful event.

The Sukuma festival, which aims to unite the Bissa diaspora through cultural celebration, was inaugurated in 2022 in the Ashanti Region by the Bissa Development Association (BDA). This marked its debut in Greater Accra, organised by the Regional BDA in collaboration with the council of Bissa Chiefs.

Cultural highlights of the day included performances by youth dance troupes showcasing traditional Bissa dances, while contemporary Bissa music added to the festivities.

The success of this inaugural event in Greater Accra underscores the growing importance of the Bissa diaspora in Ghana’s cultural and political landscape.

Bissa Chief of Offinso dies at 81 as he leaves behind 33 children

Abdul Malik Guerm
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Bissa Chief of Offinso dies at 81 as he leaves behind 33 children

The Bissa Chief of Offinso South in Ashanti Region, Kir Iddrissu Haruna Dabre, has died aged 81, following a short illness, his family announced

Kir Dabre, who served as a traditional leader in Offinso for 32 years, died on Thursday evening, the statement adds.

He has been buried shortly after his death in accordance with Islamic tradition, as the funeral is set for Sunday, 13th October.

The late chief is survived by his four wives, 33 children, and 83 grandchildren.

As the Bissa Chief, Kir Dabre played a crucial role in representing the Bissa community  maintaining cultural ties, and providing leadership for his people living in the Offinso South area of Ashanti Region.

His long tenure of 32 years as chief highlights his significant impact on the Bissa communities in both Offinso South and North.

Offinso South is a municipality , one of Ghana’s most populous areas, has a large, known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional leadership structures, and has a large Bissa presence.
And Kir Dabre ensured Bissas influence will continue to be felt in the region for generations to come.

Community leaders are expected to meet in the coming days to discuss the process of selecting a successor to the late chief.

Ashanti Region BDA boosts Greater Accra Sukuma Festival with GHS 1,000 Donation

Abdul Malik Guerm
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0
Ashanti Region BDA boosts Greater Accra Sukuma Festival with GHS 1,000 Donation

The Ashanti Region chapter of the Bissa Development Association (BDA) has stepped forward with a generous contribution of 1000 GHS to support the upcoming Sukuma Festival in Greater Accra.

This significant donation comes as the Greater Accra Bissa community prepares to celebrate its first-ever Sukuma Festival this Saturday.
The contribution from the Ashanti Region demonstrates strong inter-regional support and solidarity within the Bissa community.
It follows an earlier donation of 500 GHS from the Western Regional Branch, bringing the total support from other regions to 1500 GHS so far.
Mr. Adam Shaibu Alale, the Greater Accra Regional Chairman of the BDA, expressed gratitude for the Ashanti Region’s support, hoping to see more of such coming with less than 24 hours to the event.
“We are deeply thankful for this generous contribution from our brothers and sisters in the Ashanti Region,” he said.
“Their support not only helps us financially but also strengthens the bonds between Bissa communities across Ghana.”


The Sukuma festival is organised by regional and local branches of the BDA to meet area-specific needs and celebrate local Bissa culture.

 

This decentralised approach allows each region to tailor the celebration to its community while maintaining the core values and traditions of the Bissa people.

While Greater Accra is hosting its inaugural event this Saturday, the Ashanti Region is scheduled to hold its own Sukuma festival in November.
The inter-regional support exemplified by the Ashanti Region’s donation underscores the unity of the Bissa community across Ghana.
The Greater Accra Sukuma Festival will feature traditional dances, music performances, and Bissa cuisine.
It will also mark the public introduction of the Greater Accra Bissa Chief, Kir Salisu Ali Dabre IV.
With this additional funding, organisers are even more optimistic about delivering a memorable event that will showcase Bissa culture and heritage to both the community and the wider Ghanaian society.
“The generosity of our Ashanti brothers and sisters, following the Western Region’s contribution, has significantly boosted our preparations,” the chairman said.
“This inter-regional support truly embodies the spirit of Sukuma. We are now even more determined to make this festival a landmark event that not only celebrates our rich Bissa heritage but also strengthens our bonds across Ghana.”
The festival is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. at the Alajo Astroturf.

Wester Region Bissa comes first with huge support for Greater Accra Sukuma celebration

Abdul Malik Guerm
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0
Wester Region Bissa comes first with huge support for Greater Accra Sukuma celebration

The Western Regional Branch of the Bissa Development Association (BDA) has stepped forward with a GHS500 contribution for the upcoming Sukuma festival in Greater Accra, becoming the first among regional branches to throw in their support.

This generous support comes just 24 hours ahead of the highly anticipated programme, which is scheduled to take place this Saturday at the Alajo Astroturf.

It follows a similar move by the Bissa Youth Association, which donated GHS1,000 last week as part of an ongoing wave of contributions that has been gaining momentum, symbolising the strong bonds that unite Bissa people across different regions of Ghana.

The event marks a significant milestone for the Greater Accra Bissa community, as it’s their first celebration of this diaspora-focused cultural event, coming two years after the festival’s inauguration in the Ashanti Region.

The Western Region group, led by Chairman Salifu Fuseini Bandaogo, has announced its readiness to participate in the event being held by the Greater Accra Regional BDA under the auspices of the region’s Council of Bissa Chiefs.

Chairman Bandaogo (right) and Kir Issaka Nombre (Left) are among the leadership of the group

A diverse contingent, including chiefs, religious clerics, women, and youth, is set to make the journey to the nation’s capital for the mini-festival celebration.

Their presence, along with attendees from other regions, underscores the event’s importance in fostering connections among Bissa communities across Ghana.

Chairman Bandaogo, emphasised the significance of the festival, stating that the region is “proud to play our part” in ensuring the success of the programme.”

“The Sukuma festival is not just a celebration for our brothers and sisters in Accra,” he said.

“It’s a unifying event for all Bissa people, and we in the Western Region are proud to play our part in ensuring its success.”

Sukuma, which is a mini festival, is set to be a colorful affair, featuring a rich array of cultural displays that showcase the heritage and traditions of the Bissa people.

Saturday’s event promises to be a vibrant display of Bissa culture, fostering unity and preserving traditions for future generations while adapting to life in the diaspora.

Food will play a central role in the celebrations, with a variety of traditional Bissa dishes on offer. This culinary aspect of the festival not only promises to tantalize taste buds but also serves as a means of cultural exchange and preservation, allowing younger generations to experience and appreciate their culinary heritage.

A highlight of the event will be the public introduction of the Greater Accra Bissa Chief, Kir Salisu Ali Dabre IV.

His formal presentation to the wider community marks an important moment for the Bissa people in Greater Accra, reinforcing their cultural leadership and identity within the region. It will mark his first public appearance after his installation in May this year.

Attendees can look forward to a day filled with merriment, traditional music, and dance performances that highlight the unique cultural identity of the Bissa community.

As the Greater Accra Bissa community prepares for its maiden Sukuma celebration, the outpouring of support from various Bissa groups and individuals not only ensures a memorable celebration but also sets a strong foundation for future Sukuma festivals in other regions.

Lemagan Sori Payida to Chair Greater Accra’s maiden Sukuma

Abdul Malik Guerm
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Lemagan Sori Payida to Chair Greater Accra’s maiden Sukuma

The Lemagan Dominic Sori Payida will chair the inaugural Sukuma celebration in Greater Accra on Saturday, October 5, 2024, the Bissa Development Association (BDA) has announced.

The event, to be held at the Alajo Astroturf, will have the highest authority of the BDA, supported by his council members, presiding over the festivities, underscoring the importance of this cultural gathering the region is holding for the first time.

The Sukuma marks a significant milestone for the Bissa diaspora community in Ghana’s capital, coming two years after its inauguration in the Ashanti Region as a complement to the main Zekula festival.

A highlight of the activities will be the outdooring of the new Greater Accra Bissa Chief, Kir Salisu Ali Dabre IV, who was installed in May 2024. This ceremonial introduction of the new chief to the public adds another layer of significance to the event, which is expected to have a profound impact on the local Bissa community, bridging traditional leadership with the diaspora community’s cultural celebrations.

Kir Dabre has already arrived from his base in the United States in preparation for the ceremony, which is anticipated to be graced by dignitaries including government officials, chiefs, politicians, religious leaders, and business moguls.

The presence of Lemagan Payida and the outdooring of Kir Salisu Ali Dabre IV are expected to draw attendees from the Bissa community and beyond. The event will provide an opportunity for young people to reconnect with their identity, learn about their traditions, language, and values directly from community elders.

Sukuma will feature traditional Bissa music, dance performances, and culinary delights, offering an immersive cultural experience for both Bissa and non-Bissa attendees.

Established in 2022 under the Shaibu Gutare Zanni administration of the BDA, the Sukuma aims to celebrate and preserve Bissa culture in urban settings while respecting the exclusivity of the main Zekula Festival held in Kulumgungu.

The Sukuma represents a vital link for Bissa diaspora communities to their heritage, as it is a means of connecting urban Bissas to their roots, ensuring their rich cultural heritage thrives amidst the challenges of modern city life.

Unlike the Zekula, which occurs annually on Easter Day in Kulumgungu, the Sukuma allows for flexible dates set by local Bissa groups. This adaptability enables diaspora communities to organize celebrations that fit their unique circumstances while maintaining strong cultural ties.

With the combined significance of Lemagan Payida’s leadership and Kir Dabre’s outdooring, the maiden Accra Sukuma promises to be a landmark event in the cultural calendar of Ghana’s capital, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of Bissa traditions in the 21st century.

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