The Bissa Development Association (BDA) has honored Chief Kir Suallah Saeed Sare of Bortianor for his significant contribution to the celebration of the Zekula 2024 festival in Kulungungu.
It comes three months after the Chiefs and People of the Bissa ethnic marked the annual Zekuka Festival in their tradition capital.
He is one of three Bissa members to receive special awards for their efforts in making the festival a success.
A seven-member delegation, led by BDA National Chairman Alhaji Shaibu Musa Guatre Zanni, Esq., visited the chief’s palace in New Bortianor to present him with a commemorative plaque.
The @Bdanational on Sunday presented a plaque to Kir Suallah Saeed Sare, in recognition for his immense support towards the celebration of #zekula2024 festival. The event was held at his New Weija palace. pic.twitter.com/G4Eb5WKH92
— Bissa News (@BissaNews) August 7, 2024
Chief Sare’s notable contribution included personally financing the performance of musician Striker Dedonzy at the Bissa Festival in Kulungungu.
This act of generosity is just one example of the chief’s ongoing efforts to support and promote Bissa culture.
Chairman Guatre was effusive in his praise of Chief Sare, stating Kir’s timely support “significantly enhanced its success and impact”.
“Chief Sare’s generosity and commitment to our cultural heritage are truly commendable,” Chairman Guatre said.
“His support for the Zekula festival has significantly enhanced its success and impact. We are deeply grateful for his leadership and unwavering dedication to preserving our Bissa traditions. Chief Sare’s actions exemplify the kind of community spirit and cultural stewardship we hope to inspire in all Bissa people.”
Chairman Guatre also announced plans for the regional BDA to host the Sukuma festival, a mini-festival celebrated across various regions. This is in contrast to the Zekula, which is exclusively held in Kulungungu, the Bissa capital.
The chief, who has long been a pillar of the Bissa community, is admired for his commitment to preserving cultural heritage and fostering unity among his people.
In his acceptance speech, Chief Sare thanked the BDA for the honor, pledging to play a part in the Bissa development agenda. “I am deeply honored by this recognition,” he said. “The Zekula festival is not just a celebration; it showcases our rich cultural heritage and unity as Bissa people. As we gather each year in Kulungungu, we renew our bonds, share our stories, and pass on our traditions to the younger generation. It’s vital that we continue to support and nurture these cultural events.”
The chief, known for his forward-thinking approach to cultural preservation, made a passionate appeal to all Bissa people to support the upcoming Sukuma Festival, which will be hosted in the region for the first time.
His vision for cultural continuity and community engagement was evident as he called upon Bissa people both at home and abroad to participate in the festival.
“I call upon all Bissa people, both here and abroad, to join hands in supporting the upcoming Sukuma Festival,” he said.
“Let’s ensure that the flames of our culture burn brightly for generations to come. As we look forward to the Sukuma festival, I encourage everyone to participate with the same enthusiasm and spirit of unity.”
The day also saw the Winneba University Chapter of the National Union of Bissa Students (NUBS) presenting a citation to the chief for his contribution towards the development of education.
The BDA’s recognition of the three highest individual contributions was intended to prompt other Bissas of strong financial status to come along in preserving and promoting cultural heritage within the Bissa community.
This move underscores the association’s commitment to maintaining strong cultural ties within the Bissa community and acknowledges the crucial role that leaders like Chief Sare play in this endeavor.