The Western Regional Co-ordinating Council (WRCC) has announced the cancellation of the highly anticipated Grand Durbars that were to crown the 2026 Kundum Festival in Lower and Upper Dixcove.
The decision, which was reached following an emergency meeting of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) on Monday, August 17, 2026, comes after stakeholders failed to reach a consensus that would guarantee the peaceful coexistence of the two simultaneous events.
The cancellation of the durbars slated for Saturday, August 22, 2026, was described by authorities as a “preventive measure” necessitated by “prevailing circumstances” that posed significant risks to public safety, peace, and security.
Mr Joseph Nelson, Western Regional Minister and Chairman of the Regional Security Council, emphasized that the decision was made “purely on public safety and security grounds” and was “not intended to undermine the cultural significance of the Kundum Festival or the legitimate interests of any traditional authority or stakeholder.”
The Kundum Festival holds profound cultural, social, and socio-economic significance for the people of Dixcove and the wider Ahanta traditional area. The festival, which traditionally brings together community members, visitors, and tourists from far and wide, serves as a cornerstone of cultural identity and economic activity for the region.
The WRCC acknowledged the importance of the festival and expressed understanding of “the disappointment that may arise from its cancellation.” However, officials maintained that the safety and security of residents and visitors remain paramount.
According to the official statement, despite “extensive deliberations,” the meeting could not arrive at “an amicable agreement that would provide the necessary conditions for the peaceful conduct of the two Grand Durbars simultaneously.”
While specific details of the disagreements have not been disclosed, sources within the Council indicate that underlying tensions between various traditional authorities and stakeholder groups have been a growing concern in the lead-up to the festival.
The Regional Security Council has issued an urgent appeal to all parties involved:
· Traditional authorities and Festival Committees are urged to respect the decision and refrain from organizing or participating in activities intended to climax the 2026 Kundum Festivals.
· Residents, visitors, and businesses are advised to take note of the decision and cooperate fully with security agencies and relevant authorities.
· All stakeholders are called upon to “exercise restraint and refrain from any actions or statements that could heighten tensions within the communities.”
Despite the cancellation, the WRCC has signaled its commitment to ongoing dialogue and mediation. The Council, in collaboration with the Ahanta West Municipal Assembly, security agencies, and other relevant stakeholders, remains dedicated to “continued engagement with the traditional authorities” towards the peaceful resolution of underlying differences.
The ultimate goal, according to the statement, is to “restore conditions that will allow the Kundum Festival to be celebrated in a peaceful and harmonious manner in the future.”
As news of the cancellation spreads through the community, reactions are expected to be mixed. For many, the Kundum Festival represents not just a cultural celebration but a vital economic lifeline for local businesses, hotels, and vendors who depend on the influx of visitors during the festive period.
Local business owners in Dixcove have expressed concern over the economic impact of the cancellation. However, authorities are urging the public to maintain peace and cooperate with security agencies to ensure law and order in the communities.
This decision by REGSEC underscores the delicate balance that must often be struck between cultural preservation and public safety. While the cancellation is undoubtedly a disappointment for many, officials maintain that it is a necessary step to prevent potential confrontation, injury, destruction of property, or a breakdown of public order.
The WRCC has assured the public that they “cannot support the holding of an event where the prevailing circumstances could potentially result” in such outcomes.
With the immediate crisis averted, all eyes now turn to the future. The Regional Security Council has pledged to work tirelessly behind the scenes to mediate the differences and pave the way for future celebrations.
For now, the people of Lower and Upper Dixcove, along with visitors from across Ghana and beyond, will have to wait another year for the full grandeur of the Kundum Festival to return to the streets of this historic fishing community.
By Ebenezer Atiemo
