SWMA HOLDS GRAND DURBAR AS PART OF THE COCOA CITY EXPERIENCE

The Sefwi Wiawso Municipal Assembly, held a colourful Grand Durbar to climax activities marking the 2025 Cocoa City Experience. The ceremony, held at the Suhuma park, brought together chiefs, clergy, government officials, cocoa farmers, students, business groups, and residents from across the Municipality.

The durbar grounds were filled with rich cultural displays, traditional regalia, and rhythmic drumming, creating an atmosphere that highlighted the heritage and unity of the people of Sefwi Wiawso. The event, one of the major highlights of the Cocoa City Experience, reaffirmed the Municipality’s position as the heart of Ghana’s cocoa industry.

The grand occasion was graced by the Western North Regional Minister, Hon. Wilbert Pretty Brentum, who praised the Assembly and traditional authorities for spearheading an initiative that promotes tourism, culture, and local economic development. He encouraged stakeholders to continue supporting activities that honour cocoa farmers and expand opportunities within the cocoa value chain.

The Member of Parliament for Sefwi Wiawso, Hon. Kofi Benteh Afful, was also in attendance. In his remarks, he commended the organisers for successfully sustaining the Cocoa City Experience and highlighted the need to leverage such platforms to empower farmers and create jobs for the youth.

Former Member of Parliament and Minister, Hon. Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, also graced the occasion. He applauded the initiative and emphasised the continued importance of cocoa to national development. He further encouraged the youth to develop innovative ideas around cocoa processing and value addition.

In his address, the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Dominic Gyasi, expressed appreciation to all stakeholders for their contributions to the festival. He noted that the Cocoa City Experience is not only a celebration but also a strategic avenue to promote tourism, attract investment, and showcase the cultural identity of Sefwi Wiawso. He reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to driving development through partnerships and community engagement.

The event featured captivating cultural performances, including Kete, Adowa, and Asafo displays. Exhibitions by cocoa entrepreneurs also showcased locally processed cocoa products such as beverages, body creams, soaps, chocolates, and pastries highlighting the economic potential of the cocoa value chain.

Outstanding individuals and groups who contributed significantly to the success of the Cocoa City Experience were honoured with awards and certificates.

The durbar concluded with renewed enthusiasm and a strengthened sense of identity, firmly positioning Sefwi Wiawso as Ghana’s premier “Cocoa City.”