Techiman Appor Festival: Twafohene debunks idolatry claims, urges youth to embrace culture
The Twafohene of the Techiman Traditional Area, Nana Afena Nketia II, has dismissed claims that African festivals are rooted in idolatry, describing such assertions as a misunderstanding of culture and tradition.
He made the remarks in relation to the 2026 Techiman Appor Festival, which is currently underway in Techiman and is expected to climax on Friday, March 27, 2026.
Addressing the media, Nana Afena Nketia II who is CEO of FZ Group of Companies, Classic Fm Owner and a successful business mogul called on residents, particularly the youth, to actively participate in the festival to deepen their understanding of the traditions and cultural heritage of the area, stressing the need to preserve them for future generations.
He explained that since the beginning of time, every society has had its own distinct way of life, which defines its identity and uniqueness.
According to him, Ghanaian and African traditions place importance on showing respect to traditional priests, who play vital roles within the cultural system.
“Since the beginning of time, every country and society has had its own way of doing things. That is what we call culture, and it is what makes each people unique. If you come to Ghana, and Africa as a whole, you will realize that our culture requires us to show respect to our traditional priests.”
The Twafohene noted that traditional priests work closely with chiefs in the governance and spiritual guidance of communities, and their involvement in cultural activities should not be misconstrued as idol worship.
He added that the introduction of Christianity and Islam does not require the abandonment of indigenous customs and practices.
“Our traditional priests work together with our chiefs in the governance of our communities. The introduction of Christianity and Islam does not mean we should abandon our traditions and culture by sidelining our traditional priests.
“Therefore, the participation of traditional priests in cultural activities does not amount to idolatry. Other continents, such as Asia and Europe, continue to honor their traditions and culture without labeling them as idolatry. There is no justification for us to undermine our festivals, culture, and traditions simply because traditional priests play important roles in ensuring their success.”
The Appor Festival is an annual cultural celebration of the Bono people primarily aimed at promoting unity, accountability, and the purification of society.
The festival provides a unique platform where individuals freely express their grievances, criticize leadership, and address social wrongs without fear, while also engaging in traditional rites, drumming, dancing, and communal gatherings.
Rooted in history as a means of ensuring openness and social correction, the festival continues to serve as a tool for reconciliation and moral guidance. In modern times, it is widely regarded as a form of grassroots or traditional democracy, where freedom of expression, transparency, and community participation are upheld in ways similar to contemporary democratic systems.
Source: Elvisanokye.com
