E/R:Chief of Sokode-Juaso Cautions Against Indiscriminate Land Sales, Calls for Educational Reforms and Unity

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— Sokode-Juaso, Eastern Region

Barimah Dr. Kwabena Awuah Parker I, the Chief of Sokode-Juaso in the Adonten Division of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Area, has issued a clarion call to traditional leaders to desist from the rampant and indiscriminate sale of lands, especially farmlands, and instead channel their influence towards prioritizing education and the development of their communities.


Speaking at a colourful traditional ceremony to install sub-chiefs at his palace on July 6, 2025, Barimah Dr. Awuah Parker I emphasized that the role of chiefs is not to dominate or exploit their subjects, but rather to serve, protect, and uplift them. He expressed grave concern over the increasing trend where traditional leaders sell off communal lands—many of which are used for farming—without proper accountability or consideration of the long-term socio-economic implications.


“The land is the people’s livelihood. When you sell farmlands, you’re not just selling soil—you’re stripping away generations of sustenance, security, and identity,” he warned. “As traditional rulers, our obligation is to secure the future, not mortgage it.”


Barimah Dr. Awuah Parker I also lamented the poor state of education in Sokode-Juaso, noting that the lack of formal educational opportunities has significantly limited access to formal employment, especially for the youth. According to him, most job opportunities available today require academic or professional certification—something the majority of residents in his community lack.

“We cannot continue to raise generations without equipping them for the realities of today’s job market. It is time we, as leaders, confront this challenge head-on,” he stated passionately. He called on the newly sworn-in sub-chiefs to make education a top agenda and work with him to urgently reverse the trend.


In his address, he also stressed the importance of unity and social cohesion as key pillars for community development. “Without unity and peace, no meaningful development can take place. Let us rise above division and come together for the greater good of Sokode-Juaso,” he urged.

The event was graced by Barimah Pobi Asomanin III, Chief of Akyem Akwadum and representative of the Okyenhene, Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin. As the special guest of honour, he commended Barimah Dr. Awuah Parker I for his leadership and vision, and charged the sub-chiefs to fully support their paramount chief’s development agenda.


“Barimah Parker is your leader—do not stab him in the back,” he cautioned. “Support him wholeheartedly so that Sokode-Juaso can witness the transformation it deserves.”


As part of the day’s ceremony, Barimah Dr. Awuah Parker I officially installed four sub-chiefs and a linguist to support his administration. They include:


Nana Kwasi Osei Obiri – Kyidomhene (Chief of the Rear Guard)


Nana Akosua Nyarkoa Anim I – Krontihemaa (Queenmother of the Kronti Division)


Nana Solomon Kubunya – Mmratohene (Chief of Protocol)


And an officially recognized linguist whose name was not disclosed.



The installation marks a new chapter in the traditional governance of Sokode-Juaso, with hopes high among residents that the new leadership will deliver on its vision for education, unity, and sustainable development.



Credit: Nana Kwasi Asare 


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