Drumbeats echoed across Sambuli as the Sambultiib clan of the Konkomba people gathered recently to celebrate the 27th edition of the Ndipoandan Festival, honouring indigenous cultural identity and farm harvest.

Held in Sambuli in the Saboba District of Ghana’s Northern Region, the annual festival brought together sons and daughters of the community from across the country and the diaspora.

Clad in colourful traditional attire, elders, youth and children joined in rhythmic dances, storytelling and music that have been passed down through generations.

Ndipoandan, meaning “New Guinea Corn Festival”, marks the harvest of guinea corn — a staple crop deeply woven into the life of the Konkomba people of Gur ethnic group in northern Ghana.

Beyond celebrating a successful farming season, the festival signals the beginning of a new agricultural cycle, symbolising renewal, gratitude and continuity.

Organised under the theme: “Our Culture, Our Heritage: Using Culture as a Tool to Bring Our People Together for Development,”participants reflected a growing recognition that tradition is not only about preserving the past but also shaping the future.

Ubor N-Yabi Malibei, Chief of Sambuli in his speech called for unity and peaceful coexistence among residents and neighbouring communities. He also raised concerns about poor telecommunications connectivity in the area, noting that development cannot thrive in isolation.

The festival’s cultural pride was matched with practical ambition. Community leaders highlighted ongoing projects requiring support, including a maternity block, a community centre and a Junior High School block initiated through communal effort.

Guest of honour Ubor Dr Tassan Konja VI, Paramount Chief of the Kpasa Traditional Area in the Oti Region, urged the youth to embrace education and entrepreneurship. He also encouraged the channeling of energy into productive ventures that would create opportunities and strengthen communities.