1.      ESTABLISHMENT OF AN EXHIBITION CENTRE (TEMPORARY ODWIRA MUSEUM)

A Temporary Odwira Museum will be established as a central attraction for the bicentennial celebration. This curated exhibition space will showcase historical artefacts, royal regalia, archival photographs, traditional tools, and documented narratives of Akuapem history and the Odwira Festival.

The centre will serve as an educational and cultural hub, offering guided tours for schools, tourists, dignitaries, and the diaspora. It will also feature multimedia presentations, storytelling sessions, and interactive displays that chronicle Odwira’s 200-year journey, making it a key legacy project for cultural preservation and tourism promotion.

JULY-DECEMBER

2. ARTISTIC ENACTMENT OF ODWIRA HISTORY AND RITUALS

This activity will bring history to life through dramatic performances, cultural theatre, and live reenactments of significant moments in the Odwira tradition. To ensure authenticity and high artistic quality befitting the 200th Anniversary of the Odwira Festival, the Planning Committee has partnered with Akrofi-Christaller Institute of Theology, Mission and Culture to research and script the historical narratives, and with Abibigroma, the resident theatre group of the School of Performing Arts at the University of Ghana, to bring these scripts to life through performance. Key aspects of the Akantamanso War, purification rites, ancestral reverence, and the festival’s evolution will be artistically interpreted by skilled performers. This immersive, scholarly-grounded experience will enable audiences, especially youth, to connect visually and emotionally with Akuapem history, ensuring that traditions are not only preserved but also meaningfully understood and appreciated for generations to come.

            MAY TO SEPTEMBER

3.      DIVISIONAL CULTURAL SHOWCASE AND ABRAFO DISPLAY

This integrated cultural activity will combine the Divisional Cultural Showcase with the revival and display of the Abrafo (traditional executioners), creating a rich and educational platform to celebrate the diversity of Akuapem heritage. Each of the five divisions will present unique cultural expressions through music, dance, regalia, and traditional performances, highlighting their distinct histories and identities. As part of the showcase, the Abrafo display will feature the revival and presentation of their traditional attire, symbols, and roles within Akan society. Delivered respectfully and educationally, this component will provide audiences with deeper insight into the historical significance of the Abrafo and their evolution in modern times. Together, this activity will promote cultural preservation, unity among the divisions, and a deeper appreciation of Akuapem traditions, serving as a key highlight of the 200th Anniversary of the Odwira Festival.

MAY TO SEPTEMBER

4. FONTOMFROM DRUMMING & DANCE COMPETITION

The Fontomfrom Drumming and Dance Competition will be a key cultural highlight of the festival, showcasing the rich tradition of royal drumming combined with coordinated dance as a powerful form of expression and communication. The competition will feature participation from all five divisions of Akuapem, each presenting its best ensembles. Groups will demonstrate skill, precision, creativity, and synchronisation through intricate drumming and well-choreographed dance performances rooted in traditional rhythms. Beyond entertainment, the event will promote and preserve indigenous cultural heritage, foster unity and healthy competition among the divisions, and provide a platform to discover and nurture emerging talents in traditional drumming and dance.

APRIL-AUGUST

5.      NIGHT PROCESSION AND FIREWORKS DISPLAY

This activity will bring together a solemn candlelight procession and a vibrant fireworks display, creating a powerful blend of reflection and celebration as part of the bicentennial observance. The night procession will see participants, dressed in appropriate attire, carrying candles along designated routes, symbolising unity, remembrance, and spiritual reflection. It will serve as a moment to honour ancestors, remember departed loved ones, and reflect on the Akuapem people’s journey over the past 200 years. The procession will culminate in a grand fireworks display, lighting up the night sky in a spectacular celebration of joy, renewal, and hope for the future.

DATE: 25^TH SEPTEMBER, 2026

6.      PUBLIC LECTURES- ODWIRA @ 200

A series of public lectures will be organised in Akuapem, bringing together historians, traditional leaders, academics, and thought leaders to engage communities on key aspects of Akuapem history, culture, governance, and development. These lectures will be accessible to the general public, especially the youth, and will cover topics such as the origins of Odwira, the evolution of Akuapem society, leadership structures, and future development pathways. This initiative will promote intellectual discourse at the grassroots level, ensuring that the bicentennial celebration is not only festive but also educational and thought-provoking.

MAY TO SEPTEMBER

7.      HONORARY AWARDS CEREMONY AND GALA DINNER

A prestigious Honorary Awards Ceremony will be held to recognise and celebrate individuals, institutions, and partners who have made outstanding contributions to the development of Akuapem. Awards will be presented across various categories, including community service, cultural preservation, leadership, business excellence, education, and philanthropy.

As part of the 200th Anniversary celebrations, this ceremony will not only honour past and present contributions but also serve to inspire excellence, encourage service, and strengthen partnerships for the continued growth and transformation of Okuapeman.

 DECEMBER

8.      ODWIRA DOCUMENTARY PRODUCTION AND SCREENING

A high-quality documentary will be produced to chronicle the history, evolution, and significance of the Odwira Festival over the past 200 years. The documentary will feature interviews with traditional authorities, historians, cultural practitioners, and community members, as well as archival footage and reenactments. It will capture key elements such as rituals, historical milestones, and the cultural impact of Odwira. Screenings will be held across Akuapem and beyond, including special premieres during the festival period. This initiative will serve as a lasting visual archive and promotional tool, enhancing cultural preservation, education, and international visibility.

APRIL-JUNE

9.      EDUCATION DAY – ODWIRA QUIZ COMPETITION AMONG SCHOOLS

An Odwira-themed Quiz Competition will be organised among basic and senior high schools across Okuapeman as part of an official Education Day celebration. The quiz will test students’ knowledge of Akuapem history, culture, traditions, notable personalities, and the significance of Odwira. It aims to stimulate interest in local history, encourage academic excellence, and instil cultural pride among young people. Winning schools and participants will be recognised and rewarded, making the event both competitive and motivational, while contributing to the long-term preservation of cultural knowledge.

AUGUST – SEPTEMBER

10.  HISTORICAL PRESENTATION ON TETTEH QUARSHIE AND COCOA HERITAGE

This activity will focus on the life and legacy of Tetteh Quarshie, credited with introducing the nation’s first cocoa farm in Mampong-Akuapem, an achievement that has had a profound impact on the nation’s economy. The presentation will explore the history of cocoa in Ghana, its connection to Akuapem, and its role in national development. It will also highlight opportunities for modern agribusiness, youth involvement in agriculture, and value addition within the cocoa industry. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of linking heritage to economic empowerment, especially in the context of the Odwira bicentenary.

            AUGUST – SEPTEMBER

11.  OKUAPEMAN AND THE CHURCH: HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL REFLECTIONS

Through lectures, panel discussions, and historical presentations, this programme will explore the deep historical relationship between Okuapeman and the Christian Church, with particular emphasis on the role of early missionary activity in shaping the social, cultural, and educational development of the Akuapem State.

A central highlight of this discussion will be the recognition of the Christ Presbyterian Church, the oldest Presbyterian church in Ghana, founded in 1835 at Akuapem-Akropong. The establishment of this historic church marked a significant turning point in introducing formal education, literacy, and Christian values in the region, laying the foundation for Akuapem’s reputation as a centre of learning and intellectual advancement in Ghana.

JULY

12.  COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP EXERCISES

A series of community-wide clean-up exercises will be organised across all towns and divisions of Akuapem in the lead-up to and during the festival. Residents, youth groups, traditional authorities, and corporate partners will be mobilised to clean public spaces, markets, streets, schools, and drainage systems. This activity reflects the core Odwira principle of purification, extending it beyond spiritual cleansing to include environmental sanitation. It will also promote civic responsibility, public health awareness, and community ownership, while presenting Akuapem as a clean, welcoming destination for visitors during the bicentennial celebrations.

JUNE- DECEMBER

13.  TREE-PLANTING AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY ACTIVITIES

In line with the theme’s forward-looking focus, a large-scale tree-planting exercise will be undertaken across Akuapem to promote environmental conservation and sustainability. This initiative will involve schools, community groups, environmental organisations, and development partners, with trees planted in public spaces, schools, degraded lands, and along major roads. Educational sessions will also be held on climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable land use practices. As part of the 200th Anniversary legacy, this activity aims to create a greener, more resilient Okuapeman, reinforcing the commitment to protecting the environment for future generations.

JUNE & JULY

14.  HEALTH SCREENING AND WELLNESS OUTREACH

A comprehensive health screening and wellness outreach programme will be organised to provide free or subsidised medical services to communities across Akuapem. The outreach will include basic health checks such as blood pressure, blood sugar, eye examinations, and general consultations, as well as health education on preventive care and healthy lifestyles. Partnerships with health institutions, NGOs, and medical professionals will ensure broad coverage and impact. This initiative reflects the festival’s commitment to holistic well-being, ensuring that the celebration also contributes to improving the health and quality of life of the people.

JUNE & JULY

15.   SKILLS AND DEVELOPMENT TRAINING FOR WOMEN

Specialised skills training and capacity-building programmes will be organised for women across Okuapeman, focusing on entrepreneurship, vocational skills, financial literacy, and small business development. Workshops and training sessions will cover areas such as agro-processing, crafts, digital skills, marketing, and access to funding opportunities. This initiative aims to empower women economically, enhance livelihoods, and promote inclusive development. By investing in women, the programme supports families and communities, aligning with the broader goal of sustainable socio-economic growth.

JUNE & JULY

16.  AKUAPEM BUSINESS FORUM

The Akuapem Business Forum will serve as a high-level platform to bring together entrepreneurs, investors, business leaders, policymakers, development partners, and the Akuapem diaspora to explore economic opportunities in Okuapeman. The forum will feature panel discussions, investment presentations, networking sessions, and exhibitions, focusing on key sectors such as agriculture, tourism, real estate, agro-processing, technology, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Participants will have the opportunity to showcase products and services, explore partnerships, and attract investment into local businesses and projects. The forum will also address challenges such as access to finance, infrastructure gaps, and market expansion, while proposing practical solutions. As part of the bicentennial celebration, the forum aims to position Okuapeman as a viable destination for investment and innovation, aligning economic growth with cultural heritage.

      JULY

17.  LAUNCH OF THE AKUAPEM ENDOWMENT FUND

A major legacy initiative of the 200th Anniversary will be the launch of the Akuapem Endowment Fund, a strategic financial vehicle designed to support long-term development projects within Okuapeman. The fund will mobilise resources from traditional authorities, government, corporate organisations, philanthropists, and the diaspora to finance initiatives in education, healthcare, cultural preservation, infrastructure, and youth empowerment. The launch event will outline the fund’s vision, governance structure, funding mechanisms, and priority areas, while inviting stakeholders to contribute and partner. This initiative will ensure that the impact of the Odwira bicentenary extends far beyond the celebrations, creating a sustainable source of funding for continuous development and transformation in Akuapem.

OCTOBER

18.  DEVELOPMENT OF A POST-ODWIRA STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR OKUAPEMAN

In line with the forward-looking vision of the theme, a comprehensive Post-Odwira Strategic Development Plan will be developed to guide Okuapeman’s growth and transformation in the years ahead. This process will involve consultations with traditional leaders, government agencies, development experts, community stakeholders, and the private sector to identify key priorities and opportunities. The plan will focus on areas such as infrastructure development, tourism promotion, education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, economic diversification, and digital transformation. It will also define clear goals, timelines, and implementation strategies to ensure measurable progress. As a key outcome of the 200th Anniversary of Odwira, this strategic plan will serve as a blueprint for sustainable development, ensuring that the legacy of the festival translates into tangible improvements in the lives of the people of Okuapeman.

NOVEMBER

19. INTER-DIVISIONAL FOOTBALL TOURNAMENTS

The inter-divisional football tournament will bring together teams from all divisions of Akuapem in a friendly but competitive series of matches. The tournament will be structured in stages, culminating in a grand finale that will attract widespread community support and attendance.

This activity aims to promote unity, teamwork, and healthy competition among the youth while strengthening bonds across the divisions. It will also serve as a platform to identify and nurture young football talents within Okuapeman. Beyond the sport itself, the matches will create a lively social atmosphere, drawing families, supporters, and visitors together in celebration of the Odwira spirit.

 MAY/AUGUST-GALA, SEPTEMBER-FINALE

20. COOKING COMPETITION

The cooking competition will showcase the rich culinary heritage of the Akuapem people, bringing together participants from various communities to prepare traditional and contemporary dishes. Contestants will be judged on creativity, taste, presentation, and authenticity, with a strong emphasis on local ingredients and traditional recipes. The event will highlight the role of food in cultural identity and community life, while also promoting nutrition, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the food sector. This activity will provide an engaging platform for women, youth, and culinary enthusiasts to demonstrate their skills, while also creating opportunities for learning, networking, and cultural exchange.

 SEPTEMBER

21.  MISS ODWIRA PAGEANT

The Miss Odwira Pageant will be a flagship social event celebrating beauty, intelligence, cultural awareness, and leadership among young women in Akuapem. Participants will go through various stages, including cultural displays, talent exhibitions, public speaking, and community-based projects. The pageant will emphasise not only physical appearance but also knowledge of Akuapem heritage, confidence, creativity, and social impact. The winner will serve as a cultural ambassador for Okuapeman, promoting the values of the Odwira Festival and supporting community initiatives throughout the year. As part of the 200th Anniversary celebrations, the pageant will highlight the role of young women in preserving tradition while shaping the future.

OCTOBER

22. ODWIRA MUSICAL CONCERTS

The Odwira Musical Concert will be a vibrant series of live music events held across all five divisions of Akuapem as part of the 200th Anniversary celebrations. Each concert will feature a rich blend of traditional and contemporary music, showcasing local talents, emerging artistes, and established performers. Beyond entertainment, the concerts will create opportunities for social interaction and economic activity, with vendors and local businesses actively participating. Overall, the Odwira Musical Concert will serve as a unifying and lively platform that reflects the creativity, cultural pride, and collective spirit of the Akuapem people during this historic bicentennial celebration.

      SEPTEMBER-DECEMBER

23. PROMOTION OF AKUAPEM TOURIST SITES

Activities will be organised to highlight the rich tourism potential of Akuapem, including guided tours and cultural exhibitions at key sites across the region. Participants will have the opportunity to visit natural attractions, historical landmarks, and cultural centres while learning about the history, traditions, and folklore of each location. To maximise reach and engagement, various social media platforms as well as traditional media channels will be used to promote these tourist sites, sharing information, stories, and visuals that highlight their cultural and ecological significance. This initiative aims to raise awareness of Akuapem as a destination for cultural and eco-tourism, attract visitors from across Ghana and beyond, and generate economic opportunities for local communities. It will also encourage investment in hospitality, tourism infrastructure, and community-based tourism initiatives, ensuring the long-term preservation and promotion of local heritage.

APRIL-DECEMBER

24. VISIT TO KATAMANSO

The guided visit to Katamanso, the historic site of the Battle of Katamanso, will provide participants with an opportunity to reflect on a pivotal moment in Akuapem and Ghanaian history: the 1826 victory over the Asante army. This site, historically significant as a place of both struggle and triumph, symbolises the resilience and unity of the Akuapem people and their allies during the conflict. Through historical interpretation, storytelling, and commemorative ceremonies, visitors will learn about the strategies, sacrifices, and heroism that contributed to the victory, as well as its lasting impact on Akuapem’s political and cultural development.

25.  DIASPORA ENGAGEMENT AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMMES

The bicentennial celebrations will include targeted initiatives to engage members of the Akuapem diaspora and foster cultural exchange. Programs will include workshops, cultural performances, networking sessions, and collaborative projects with diaspora participants. These engagements will provide opportunities to share knowledge, explore business and investment collaborations, and strengthen cultural ties between Okuapeman and its global community. By facilitating dialogue and mutual understanding, the diaspora programs will reinforce the global relevance of Akuapem heritage and encourage active participation in the region’s socio-economic and cultural development.

APRIL TO SEPTEMBER

26. ODWIRA BOXING NIGHT

As part of the exciting lineup of activities for the 2026 Akuapem Odwira Festival, a Boxing Night will be organised in partnership with the Ghana Boxing Authority. This event is envisioned as a high-energy sporting and entertainment spectacle that will bring together some of Ghana’s finest boxing talents, alongside emerging fighters, to showcase skill, discipline, and national pride. The Boxing Night will not only serve as a platform to promote sports development but also enhance the festival’s appeal to a broader audience, particularly the youth.