The committee overseeing the organisation of the first-ever Greater Accra Sukuma festival met with the Council of Bissa Chiefs on Sunday to present its budget for the upcoming celebration, marking a significant step towards the event’s realisation.
This meeting was in response to the council’s request for a detailed budget presentation to better understand the event’s financial requirements after the regional BDA’s earlier briefing on major activities and estimated costs for the celebration.
Humu Dilley, the regional women’s organiser for the Bissa Development Association (BDA), led a delegation including Mahmud Bancy, the regional protocol officer, national deputy secretary Abdul Malik Guerni, committee members Abu Issa Monni and Muniru Bansi to present the budget at the Dabre Palace.
With barely a month to go, the delegation appealed to the council to act swiftly on the proposed budget.
“Time is of the essence at this stage and based on your request, we humbly return to present this budget to you,” Dilley emphasised to the assembled chiefs as she gave a breakdown of the budget.
“We need leadership to act promptly and secure the necessary funds. This celebration is a significant milestone for our community in the capital, and we must ensure its success.”
Sunday’s meeting marked a crucial step in securing the necessary resources and support to ensure the festival’s success.
The event, organised by the Greater Accra Bissa Development Association (BDA), is scheduled for 5 October at the Alajo Astro Turf, under the auspices of the Council of Bissa Chiefs, headed by Kir Salisu Ali Dabre IV.
The celebration will also provide a platform to officially introduce Kir Salisu Ali Dabre IV, who was invested as the Greater Accra Bissa Chief in March this year.
This marks the first time the festival will be celebrated in the nation’s capital, two years after its inception in the Ashanti Region.
Established in 2022, Sukuma serves as a cultural festival for Bissa diaspora communities, distinct from the annual Zekula festival held in Kulungungu.
The Greater Accra event is expected to feature a range of traditional music, dance, cuisine, and cultural displays, showcasing the unique heritage of the Bissa people.
For the regional BDA, the October 5 celebration represents a major achievement two years after their inauguration.
The inaugural Greater Accra Sukuma festival is poised to be a landmark event, celebrating Bissa culture and strengthening community bonds in the capital.