The Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, has reaffirmed the longstanding relationship between the Gonja and Ashanti kingdoms, describing it as a bond that has endured through generations and continues to grow stronger over time.
The message was delivered on his behalf by the Yapeiwura, A.B.T. Zakaria, during the Yagbonwura’s historic courtesy visit to the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
According to the speech, the visit serves as a reaffirmation of the enduring friendship between the two kingdoms and reflects a shared commitment to strengthening cooperation and mutual respect.
The Yagbonwura expressed the hope that the longstanding relationship would continue to inspire greater collaboration, deepen mutual understanding, and promote unity between the two traditional kingdoms for the benefit of their people and future generations.
He also commended the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his exceptional contribution to peace-building, alongside the Yagbonwura of Gonja and the Nayiri, describing their collective leadership as a stabilising force in Ghana.
The speech further praised the Asantehene’s pivotal role in the successful resolution of the Dagbon chieftaincy dispute, describing it as a shining example of statesmanship, wisdom, and exemplary traditional leadership.
Addressing contemporary challenges facing traditional authorities, the Yagbonwura emphasised that chiefs have a sacred responsibility to preserve their customs and traditions while guiding their people towards peace, stability, and prosperity. He identified the increasing incidence of land disputes as one of the major issues confronting many traditional areas across the country.
He observed that land conflicts have the potential to divide families and communities, delay development projects, discourage investment, and undermine social harmony.
The Yagbonwura therefore appealed for the Gonja and Ashanti kingdoms to continue working closely together by sharing experiences, strengthening peaceful mechanisms for resolving land disputes, and exchanging knowledge on more effective and efficient systems of land administration.
He expressed confidence that continued cooperation between the two revered traditional kingdoms would further promote peace, stability, and sustainable development across their respective traditional areas and Ghana as a whole.
