Anambra community celebrates New Yam festival, targets devt

In the Nawfia community of Anambra State, the annual New Yam festival was celebrated, marking the start of a community-wide focus on agricultural development. The event, known as "Iwa ji Nawfia," celebrated the community's agricultural heritage and emphasized the importance of food sustainability, especially in the face of rising food prices.

During the festival, the traditional ruler of Nawfia, HRM Igwe Ogochukwu Obelle, encouraged the youth to embrace agriculture, highlighting its potential to reduce unemployment, hunger, and ensure food security. The monarch described yam as the "king of crops" and stressed the importance of maintaining peace and harmony within the community.

The New Yam festival, a revered celebration of Igbo cultural heritage, included prayers for development, progress, and lasting peace. The youth played a significant role in the festivities, with cultural dances and displays by masqueraders adding to the joyous atmosphere. The event attracted dignitaries from the state government, traditional rulers, politicians, security agencies, and civil society organizations.

HRM Obelle commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his efforts in improving the state's road infrastructure, which had boosted local commerce and regional connectivity. The festival served as a reminder of the community's commitment to agricultural revival and the importance of preserving cultural traditions for future generations.