Nana Opare Odei II, the Chief of Okobeyeye in the Nsawam-Adoagyeri Constituency of the Eastern Region, who also serves as the Apegyahene of Akuapem Awherase and Akuapem Adonteng Apegyahene under Nana Otuboa Gyan Kwasi, the Aburihene, has launched an ultra-modern Cultural Centre aimed at showcasing Ghana’s cultural heritage to the world.
During the launch, a fund was also established to support the cultural center project, with organizations, corporate institutions, and individuals encouraged to contribute to this significant initiative.
Once completed, the Cultural Centre will feature facilities including a swimming pool, lawn tennis court, event center, and more.
Nana Opare Odei II ascended the throne as the Chief of Okobeyeye in 2008. Since then, he has spearheaded numerous developmental projects and supported the youth in various ways. Among these projects is the ongoing construction of the Cultural Centre in Okobeyeye, aimed at promoting tourism and cultural activities.
The Cultural Centre will be adorned with Ghana’s Coat of Arms, symbolizing that the Centre is for the entire nation and can serve as a venue for the President during visits to Okobeyeye.
The Centre will be open to all Ghanaians, including foreigners interested in learning about Ghanaian tradition and culture. It will also serve as a venue for swimming, lawn tennis, table tennis, volleyball, and other sports activities, as well as an entertainment space with live band music.
In his address, Nana Opare Odei II expressed his appreciation to his elders and subjects for their support over the past 16 years and assured them of his commitment to bringing more developmental projects to the area.
“If I say I can do everything on my own, then I am not telling the truth. So, whoever is determined to support this project is indeed welcome,” he said.
During the event, Nana Opare Odei II also installed Nana Kumi Kinbungum as the Ankobeahene to assist him in ruling the town, after the necessary traditional rites were performed.
Nana Opare Odei II explained that the vision for the Cultural Centre began during his time in the film industry as a lighting engineer in 1991, where he had the opportunity to work with seasoned actors and actresses in the country. Through his experiences, he became aware of the alarming rate of violence against chiefs, often stemming from land disputes, and resolved to create a project that would educate people on the importance of protecting traditional rulers.
He emphasized that chiefs are the “presidents” of their towns, just as every country has one president. Unlike politicians who have a fixed term in office, traditional rulers serve for life unless they breach the rules of the Stool. Therefore, it is crucial for chiefs to fulfill their duties to avoid incurring the wrath of the people.
“What Ghanaians need is swimming, music, tradition, and culture, all of which can be found at the Okobeyeye Cultural Centre,” he stated.
Philanthropist Field Marshall Tony donated GH¢200,000 on behalf of Vice President Dr. Alhaji Bawumia to support the construction of the Cultural Centre.
The Sudanese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E Mohamed Abdehahman Yasin Mohamed also urged Ghanaians to conduct the upcoming 2024 general elections peacefully, noting that his country has suffered greatly and pleading for this year’s election to be free and fair to maintain the peace the country currently enjoys.
He commended Nana Opare Odei II for the wonderful work he has been doing and continues to do for his people.
