The Grand Durbars, a pivotal cultural and economic event marking the 2026 Kundum Festivals in Lower and Upper Dixcove, Western Region, have been officially cancelled following a meeting of the Western Regional Coordinating Council (WRCC) on Monday, August 17, 2026. The meeting, convened to facilitate the celebrations of the festival, which holds significant cultural, social, and economic importance to the Dixcove community and the broader Ahanta traditional area, was met with a significant shift in planning.
The WRCC, responsible for overseeing the festival’s coordination, announced the decision following a lengthy discussion involving the Regional Security Council (REGSEC). The meeting’s primary objective was to ensure the peaceful execution of the two Grand Durbars, scheduled for Saturday, August 22, 2026, which are integral to the region’s cultural heritage. The event’s significance extends beyond mere celebrations; it’s a cornerstone of the Dixcove community’s identity and prosperity.
However, after exhaustive deliberations, REGSEC concluded that the current circumstances presented a significant risk to the safety and security of attendees and the surrounding area. The decision was reached after extensive risk assessments and a careful evaluation of potential scenarios. The WRCC stressed that the cancellation was not intended to diminish the cultural value of the Kundum Festival or the interests of any traditional authority or stakeholder. The cultural significance of the festival is paramount, and the WRCC acknowledged the importance of the event to the Dixcove population.
The WRCC’s rationale centers on the potential for heightened security risks, including confrontations, injuries, property damage, or a breakdown of public order. This potential for disruption has been deemed unacceptable, necessitating a precautionary measure to protect residents and visitors. The WRCC further emphasized that the decision was a preventative measure, prioritizing public safety and security.
As a direct consequence of this decision, the WRCC issued a directive to all individuals and organizations involved in the planning, organization, or execution of activities intended to commemorate the 2026 Kundum celebrations in Lower and Upper Dixcove. The WRCC and REGSEC have stated their commitment to continued engagement with the traditional authorities, the Ahanta West Municipal Assembly, security agencies, and other relevant stakeholders to address the underlying differences and facilitate a peaceful and future-proof celebration of the festival. The public has been encouraged to cooperate with security agencies and authorities in maintaining peace and order throughout the Dixcove region.
The WRCC and REGSEC acknowledged the critical role the festival plays in the Dixcove community, expressing concern for the disappointment this cancellation may cause. They highlighted the importance of the event to the people and the need to protect the well-being of residents and visitors. The decision to cancel the Grand Durbars was reached after careful consideration of the potential risks, with the WRCC emphasizing that the focus must remain on safeguarding safety and security.
The WRCC and REGSEC have stated that they will continue to work with the traditional authorities, the Ahanta West Municipal Assembly, security agencies, and other stakeholders to resolve any existing issues and create conditions for a peaceful and successful Kundum Festival in the future. The public has been urged to cooperate with security agencies and authorities in maintaining peace and order in Lower and Upper Dixcove. The cancellation is a significant development, demonstrating a strong prioritization of safety and security in the region.
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Source: Adom Online
