Dagbon Union UK and Ireland Celebrates New Kingdom Ambassador
The Dagbon Union UK and Ireland (DUUK) has celebrated the appointment of Ms. Lyssiemay N. Annoh as Ambassador and Global Marketing and Communications Representative for the Dagbon Kingdom at a colourful Sallah celebration held in North London.
The event, organised by the official body representing the Dagbon community and people of Northern Ghana in the United Kingdom and Ireland, brought together traditional leaders, community members and distinguished guests to mark what speakers described as a significant milestone in promoting the Kingdom on the global stage.
Ms. Annoh was appointed by Ndan Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari Gariba II, the Overlord of Dagbon, in collaboration with Gundogu Naa Hajia Samata Abudu, the highest female traditional authority in the Dagbon Kingdom, through her principal liaison to government, the private sector and development partners, the Vokpi Naa.
The celebration attracted key figures within the Dagbon Union, including Chief Ibrahim Sunday, Chief of DUUK UK and Ireland; Deputy Chief Wulana; Head of the Women’s Wing, Alimatu Sadia (Magazia); Chairman Afa Hadid; and Principal Women’s Organiser Salamatu Abdulrahama.
Also present was Abra Nana Nyarko, who was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) by Charles III in 2013.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Ibrahim Sunday underscored the importance of unity among members of the Dagbon community in the diaspora.
“Today’s celebration is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve through unity and shared purpose. As a community in the UK and Ireland, we remain deeply committed to supporting the growth and global visibility of the Dagbon Kingdom, while strengthening the bonds that unite us across borders,” he said.
A representative of Gundogu Naa, the Vokpi Naa, said the appointment symbolised the resilience and aspirations of the Dagbon people.
“This moment reflects the pride, resilience and unity of the Dagbon people. As we support this important appointment, we also reaffirm our commitment to preserving our heritage, strengthening our partnerships and advancing the Kingdom’s development for future generations,” the representative stated.
In her acceptance remarks, Ms. Annoh described the appointment as both an honour and a responsibility to showcase Dagbon’s rich heritage to the international community.
“It is a profound honour to serve the Dagbon Kingdom in this role. I am inspired by our rich heritage and the strength of our people, and I am committed to sharing our story with the world—building bridges, celebrating our culture and positioning Dagbon as a beacon of pride, unity and opportunity,” she said.
She noted that one of her priorities would be to promote the Dagbon Kingdom as a premier cultural and tourism destination in Ghana, while acknowledging the need to improve visitor infrastructure and facilities to enhance the tourism experience.
The Dagbon Kingdom remains one of Ghana’s most culturally significant traditional states, renowned for its rich history, vibrant customs and heritage. It is home to important cultural landmarks, extensive historical collections and is located near the Savannah tourism corridor, including Mole National Park, Ghana’s largest wildlife reserve.
The Kingdom is equally celebrated for its iconic Fugu (Batakari), the handwoven traditional smock that has become a powerful symbol of royalty, identity, resilience and the cultural heritage of Northern Ghana.
The London celebration concluded with renewed calls for unity among the Dagbon diaspora and a shared commitment to promoting the Kingdom’s cultural heritage, tourism potential and development on the global stage.
Source: Felix NYAABA//expressnewsghana.com
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