Queen Mother of Akyem Kukurantumi Urges Youth to Seek Elders’ Guidance and Reject Drugs

In a powerful call for unity, cultural revival, and personal responsibility, Nana Oforiwaa Denkyiraa Nkwabita, Queen Mother of Akyem Kukurantumi and Adonten Hemaa of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council, has urged the youth of her community to rekindle their relationships with traditional elders and to reject the growing threat of substance abuse.

Speaking at a vibrant community gathering attended by hundreds of young people, traditional leaders, and residents, the revered matriarch emphasized the importance of reconciliation, self-improvement, and cultural continuity as cornerstones for a brighter future.

“The past is the past,” Nana Oforiwaa declared, her voice steady and commanding. “Let us not dwell on old mistakes or conflicts. This year is your opportunity to redefine yourselves, to grow, and to contribute meaningfully to your community.”

Her message, delivered with warmth and authority, encouraged the youth to "forget the bad things of last year" and to focus their energy on positive transformation in 2026 and beyond. She highlighted the need for healing and progress, urging young people to move beyond divisions and embrace a shared vision for Akyem Kukurantumi.

At the heart of her address was a strong appeal for the youth to reconnect with the town’s elders—those she described as “the custodians of culture, wisdom, and moral values.”

“Our elders are not just family members; they are the pillars of this town,” she said. “Strengthen your ties with them, for they can offer direction and strength in times of challenge. Their lived experiences are a treasure that cannot be found in books or on screens.”

Nana Oforiwaa’s call reflects growing concerns across many Ghanaian communities about the erosion of traditional values and intergenerational communication. As societal changes accelerate, she emphasized that cultural roots remain essential for identity, resilience, and social cohesion.

The Queen Mother also issued a stern warning against the perils of drug use, which she identified as a major threat to youth development and community stability. “Stay away from drugs,” she implored. “Your life is yours to shape. Let your focus be on developing your skills, your future, and the well-being of others.”

She underscored that true success is not measured by material wealth alone, but by character, contribution, and the ability to uplift one’s family and community.

As Adonten Hemaa—a high-ranking title within the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council—Nana Oforiwaa Denkyiraa Nkwabita wields significant influence both locally and regionally. Her dual role as a traditional leader and cultural guardian positions her as a vital bridge between ancestral heritage and modern aspirations.

Community leaders and youth organizers who attended the gathering praised her message as timely and transformative. “What the Queen Mother said is not just advice—it is a roadmap,” said Kwadwo Asante, a youth coordinator in Kukurantumi. “We’ve seen how disconnection from our elders has led to confusion and poor choices. Rebuilding that link is key to our revival.”

The event concluded with a traditional ceremony symbolizing renewal and unity, where youth leaders formally pledged to support community development initiatives and mentorship programs led by elders.

As Akyem Kukurantumi looks ahead to 2026, Nana Oforiwaa’s call continues to reverberate: a plea for healing, a demand for responsibility, and a vision of a future where tradition and progress walk hand in hand.