At the 2024 New Yam Festival held at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, Governor Chukwuma Soludo called on the Igbo people to embrace sustainable farming practices as a way to address escalating food prices. Emphasizing the traditional Igbo commitment to agriculture, Governor Soludo described it as the foundation of the community’s strength and resilience.
Highlighting the significance of preserving cultural heritage, the governor urged Anambra citizens and the broader Igbo community to remain rooted in their traditions. He noted that cultural practices, such as the annual New Yam Festival, play a crucial role in fostering a sense of unity and identity that can contribute to national development.
The event featured performances showcasing Igbo heritage, including a masquerade and dance parade by representatives from different local government areas. The highlight of the festival was a yam size competition, where Anaocha Local Government Area secured the top prize with the largest yam, earning them three million naira and a tricycle. This victory marked the second consecutive win for Anaocha in this category.
Mr. Don Onyenji, the Commissioner for Tourism, Culture, and Entertainment, underscored the importance of such events in preserving cultural values for younger generations, fostering a deeper connection to their roots.
