By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
The highest traditional secret society of Nso land, “Nwerong”has confirmed that the Ngonnso Cultural Festival, as decreed by the Paramount Fon of Nso, will take place this year from November 26 to 30. The society also called for peace to reign among the sons and daughters of the land.
The confirmation was made on October 9 in Kumbo during a public outing by “Nwerong” at the Mbveh Market Square. Speaking through an interpreter (Shey Mbisey), “Nwerong” urged the people of Nso to prioritize peace:
“Nso should hear… The first thing I am begging is that let there be peace in this land. There is nothing that can go well without peace.”
“Nwerong” added, “… I have accepted with you that the Ngonnso Cultural Week will take place.”
The secret society emphasized the importance of showcasing Nso’s traditions to the younger generation: “It is time to show the tradition of the land children so that they can see what Nso is made of.” The society further urged all compound heads to prepare their lands and pray for peace.
“Nwerong” cautioned families against the practice of “washing of Faays” and stressed the importance of thorough due diligence by competent persons before any candidate is presented for enthronement as a compound head.
Among other things, “Nwerong” encouraged mothers and the wives of their sons to maintain harmonious relationships and avoid unnecessary conflicts.
The Ngonnso Cultural Festival, the largest cultural event in Nso, is making a triumphant return after a seven-year break. The festival was suspended in 2017 due to the socio-political crisis in the Northwest and Southwest Regions.
This year’s edition, themed “The Culture of Peace and Reconciliation,” will take place from November 26 to 30, 2024.
The Ngonnso Cultural Festival commemorates Ngonnso, the mythical founder and mother of the Nso people. In the 1950s, Nso residents began an annual cultural week to celebrate this Nso hero, warrior, and founder. Yaya Ngonso, as she is also known, was the first Fon (head) of Nso.
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