The Sunyani Traditional Council has reinstated an age-old custom that places a total ban on all farming activities every Friday across communities under its jurisdiction.
The directive, the Council says, is part of a renewed effort to uphold sacred traditions, promote discipline, and strengthen community unity.
In addition to the farming restriction, the Council has banned the performance of funeral rites in open public spaces, including streets, access roads, and school parks.
Speaking to the media on behalf of the Paramount Chief, Odeefuor Ogyeamansan Boahen Korkor II, the Akwamuhene, Nana Kwaku Sarbeng Ababio, explained that the decision is deeply rooted in traditional values that once guided the lives of their forefathers.
“Our forefathers observed Fridays as sacred days to rest the land and offer thanks to the gods. We are only reviving what sustained our ancestors spiritually and socially,”
According to him, the directive is meant to allow both the land and its people to rest, while fostering communal harmony and participation in traditional rites.
The Traditional Council further directed non-indigenous residents of Sunyani to align themselves with one of the recognized royal clans including the Gyaase, Adontene, Akwamu, Benkum, Nifa, Ankobea, or Kyidom families to ensure every individual has a family to support them during funerals or community activities.
“Those who do not wish to associate with the Gyaase family can feel free to join any of the other royal families willing to assist them,” Nana Sarbeng added.
The Council also warned that anyone who flouts the new directives would face severe traditional sanctions.
However, the announcement has generated mixed reactions among residents, particularly farmers, many of whom rely on daily farming for their livelihood.
While some have praised the move as a step toward preserving Sunyani’s rich cultural heritage, others fear the Friday restriction could affect productivity and income.
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