This Saturday, December 30th, marks the 2nd annual celebration of the Sukuma festival by the Bissa community in Kumasi.
Sukuma, meaning “gathering” in Bissa, is a cultural festival that brings Bissas together to celebrate their heritage through music, food, dance, and more. Established in 2022 by the Bissa Development Association (BDA),
Sukuma in Kumasi serves as a local commemoration to complement the main Zekula festival held annually in the traditional capital of Kulungungu.
It provides Bissas living in southern Ghana with an opportunity to unite and keep their culture alive.
This year’s festivities are shaping up to be even bigger than last year’s inaugural event. There will be special performances by renowned musicians, appearances by political leaders, and vendors providing delicious Bissa cuisine and refreshments.
For any Bissas in Kumasi or surrounding areas, attending Sukuma 2023 is a can’t-miss celebration.
The Sukuma 2023 is a celebration that encapsulates the spirit and vitality of the Bissa community, offering numerous compelling reasons for Bissas to participate and immerse themselves in this momentous event.
With just 24 hours until the colourful event, Bissa News Online brings you ten reasons for which you should attend Sukuma 2023.
1. Cultural Celebration: The Sukuma festival offers a unique opportunity to celebrate and honour the rich cultural heritage of the Bissa community through music, dance, and traditional performances. It showcases Bissa traditions like music, food, and clothing to the larger Ghanaian community. Sharing cultures fosters nationwide understanding.
2. Community Unity: This festival provides a platform for Bissas to come together, fostering a sense of unity, belonging, and camaraderie within the community. It provides an opportunity for Bissas living in southern Ghana to come together and celebrate their culture and heritage. Wearing traditional outfits and seeing fellow Bissas reinforces cultural pride.
3. Heritage Preservation: By participating in Sukuma, attendees actively contribute to preserving and promoting the traditions and customs that define the Bissa culture for future generations. Families can experience Bissa cultural events and costumes firsthand. Children gain exposure to ancestral traditions.
4. Networking Opportunities: The festival presents an excellent opportunity for individuals to connect with others within the Bissa community, fostering new friendships and strengthening existing relationships.
5. Economic opportunities: Sukuma 2023 will feature a wide array of authentic Bissa cuisine and refreshments, offering attendees a chance to savour traditional flavours and delicacies. Food vendors and beverage marketers can take advantage of the large crowds to earn extra income. Economic opportunities empower the Bissa community.
6. Cultural Education: Through various activities and exhibits, the festival provides an educational experience, allowing attendees to learn more about the history, language, art, and traditions of the Bissa people. Youth can learn about Bissa history and customs through elders and activities. Knowledge transfer maintains heritage.
7. Entertainment: Renowned musicians and performers are set to grace the stage, promising captivating and dynamic performances that showcase the vibrancy of Bissa music and dance. Dancing and singing along promote cultural preservation.
8. Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Sukuma welcomes individuals of all ages, making it an ideal setting for families to come together, celebrate, and create lasting memories. Sukuma means “gathering,” so it is a chance to unite with other Bissas, including those who may have moved away from traditional Bissa areas. Reconnecting strengthens community ties.
9. Political Engagement: The festival will provide an opportunity for political leaders to engage with the Bissa community, offering a platform for dialogue and the exchange of ideas. Their participation highlights Bissa’s integration into a broader society.
10. Unforgettable Experience: Attending Sukuma 2023 promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with joy, laughter, and a deep sense of cultural pride. It reinforces pride in the Bissa identity and community. Celebrating uniqueness brings people together.
In conclusion, don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to embrace and revel in the beauty of Bissa culture at Sukuma 2023!