The Manya Krobo Ngmayem Festival will mark its 133rd anniversary this year, with organisers calling for greater unity and renewed efforts to preserve and promote Krobo culture and heritage.
The 133rd edition of the festival, scheduled for the last week of October, was officially launched on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at the forecourt of the Konor’s Palace in Odumase-Krobo.
The festival was originally established as the “Hieyemi” festival in 1893 by Sir Emmanuel Mate-Kole. It was later renamed Ngmayem in 1944 by his successor, Oklemekuku Azzu Mate-Kole.
Over the years, the celebration has developed into a week-long cultural festival that attracts indigenes of Manya Krobo as well as domestic and international tourists.
Ngmayem, which literally means “Eating of Millet” or “Eating of Food,” celebrates the abundance of the harvest and reflects the strong agricultural traditions of the Krobo people.
The festival also signifies the beginning of a new year on the Krobo calendar and provides an opportunity for families and communities to reunite, strengthen relationships and renew their bonds.
Ngmayem as a symbol of Krobo identity
Speaking on behalf of the Konor of Manya Krobo, Nene Sakite II, the Divisional Chief for Manya Aklomuase, Okpatakpla Sasraku IV, praised efforts to develop and enrich the festival over the years.
He said Ngmayem had evolved beyond an annual celebration to become an important platform for showcasing the history, heritage and distinctive identity of the Krobo people.
He particularly highlighted the Mock Durbar, in which basic school pupils dress in traditional regalia and take on the roles of chiefs, queen mothers and elders.
According to him, the initiative provides a creative means of exposing younger generations to Krobo traditions and ensuring the continuity of the culture.
Eastern Regional Minister, GTA pledge support
Guest of Honour at the launch, Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, said the festival had reached a significant milestone after more than a century of continuous celebration and development.
She noted that few festivals in Ghana could match Ngmayem in terms of its longevity, appeal, grandeur and patronage.
The Minister stressed the importance of unity and togetherness in promoting the development and progress of the Manya Krobo traditional area.
The Deputy Chief Executive of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey, who was the Special Guest, pledged the Authority’s support for the Manya Krobo State, Traditional Council and Festival Planning Committee.
He said the goal was to transform Ngmayem beyond a traditional celebration into an immersive experience that showcases Manya Krobo’s history of resilience and bravery, cuisine, landscapes, folk music, indigenous crafts and hospitality.
2026 Ngmayem celebrations
Chairman of the Festival Planning Committee, Gilbert Nene Domer-Siako Odjidja, said the committee was committed to continually improving the standard of the festival to provide indigenes, culture enthusiasts and tourists with a memorable experience.
He announced that this year’s celebration will run from Sunday, October 25 to Monday, November 2, 2026.
The programme will feature a range of cultural, religious and entertainment activities, including:
- Yokama – celebration of ideal women
- Mock Durbar – a simulated traditional durbar by basic school pupils
- Akleme – procession to the Royal Mausoleum
- Klowem Yami – pilgrimage to Krobo Mountain featuring hiking and musical performances
- Grand Durbar – gathering of chiefs, queen mothers, guests and citizens
- Miss Ngmayem Pageant
- Non-Denominational Thanksgiving Service
Organisers say the 2026 edition is expected to further strengthen the festival’s role as a platform for cultural preservation, community reunion and tourism promotion while showcasing the rich heritage of the Manya Krobo people
Source: joynews
