“Nkusukum Remains Alive, Strong and Committed to Peace, Unity and Development” — Nkusukum Omanhen [PHOTOS+VIDEOS]

The Paramount Chief (Omanhen) of the Nkusukum Traditional Area, Okogyeman Okese Essandoh IX, together with Nananom, traditional elders, and other leaders of the Nkusukum Traditional Council, has paid a courtesy visit to Old Nkusukum, a suburb of Mankessim in the Mfantseman Municipality of the Central Region, following the recent collapse of the area’s revered ancient sacred tree.

The visit formed part of efforts to honour customary rites and traditional rituals associated with the sacred tree, which has long been regarded as a significant symbol of the history, spirituality, and cultural heritage of the Nkusukum people. The delegation also paid homage to the forefathers whose sacrifices and leadership are believed to have contributed to the peace, unity, and victories enjoyed by the traditional area over the years.

Speaking to NewsAfricaGhana during the visit, in an interview conducted by the media team led by Paa Solo Savvy, Okogyeman Okese Essandoh IX called on residents to remain calm and united despite concerns surrounding the fallen sacred tree.

According to the Omanhen, the collapse of the ancient tree should not be viewed as a sign of misfortune, stressing that the spiritual and cultural legacy it represented remains intact.

“Nkusukum remains alive, strong, and committed to peace, unity, and development,” he stated.

The Paramount Chief further revealed that, according to tradition, the ancient sacred tree had already produced and established its successor at the same location before its eventual collapse, assuring the people that the continuity of the area’s cultural heritage remains secured.

Okogyeman Okese Essandoh IX also appealed to members of the Nkusukum Twidan Royal Family and the people of Nkusukum Amanse to foster unity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence for the advancement of the traditional area.

He emphasized that development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and urged all factions within the community to set aside their differences and work together towards a common goal.

The Omanhen also took the opportunity to express concern for individuals affected by the incident that accompanied the collapse of the sacred tree and the recent heavy rains in the area.

He offered prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured victim currently receiving treatment at the Winneba Trauma and Specialist Hospital, noting that reports indicate the individual is responding positively to medical care and remains in stable condition.

As part of his address, Okogyeman Okese Essandoh IX extended his heartfelt appreciation and warm wishes to the people of the Nkusukum Traditional Area for their resilience, support, and commitment during this challenging period.

He encouraged residents to continue upholding the values of unity, peace, respect for tradition, and community development, expressing confidence that Nkusukum would emerge stronger and more united.

The recent collapse of the ancient sacred tree has attracted significant attention across the Central Region, with many residents and cultural enthusiasts describing the event as a historic moment in the rich traditional history of the Nkusukum Traditional Area.

Traditional leaders have since performed the necessary customary rites and rituals to pave the way for the safe removal of the fallen tree while preserving the sanctity of the site.

Attached below are video photos from the courtesy visit by the Nkusukum Omanhen, Okogyeman Okese Essandoh IX, together with Nananom and traditional leaders of the Nkusukum Traditional Area, to Old Nkusukum following the collapse of the ancient sacred tree