VAYA and VASCAN has joined the people of Sonyor to launch the 2023 Deng festival in the Bole District of the Savannah Region.
In a welcome address on behalf of leadership of Sonyor, Mr David Kapuori applauded VAYA for the initiative by calling on all in the region to support the only unique festival.
Addressing the durbar of chiefs and people of Sonyor, the President of VAYA Mr Mangu Donwaazum, narrated the history of Deng by indicating that all Vaglas leadership used to meet in ancient community call Dagbigu to worship an earth god (deity ) known as “kaafu” which was known for healing sickness especially snake bite .
Until the emergence of the new earth powerful deity Sonyor Kupo for which the then Mandari Vagla koori made a pledge for success in an emerging war from Ivory Coast with the promise to have a ‘play’ if successful (Deng).
He said Deng has a lot of benefits including spiral power to support political fortunes, businesses, sickness and addressing serious issues of witch craft.
He called on all to be part of this year’s celebration to make it a memorable one.
Speaking on the topic “Strategies to harness the potential of Eco tourism in Savannah Region: Deng as a case” on behalf of the member of Parliament for Bole-Bamboi Constituency, Iddisah Tahiru said eco tourism has rich potential of lifting economic and social lives of the people.
He said Deng cannot be an exception from other eco tourism.
He pleaded with the people of Sonyor to adapt strategies to market the eco potential of Deng.
He encouraged the local organizing committee to use social media platform to post catchy contents while relying on tradition media for publicity.
Speaking on behalf the Regional Minister, Hon Veronica Alele Hemeng spoke on the topic “harnessing cultural potentials for tourism development in Savannah Region” .
She said the festival will attract people from far and near to witness the celebration to harness the economic potential of the area to the global community adding that its celebration defines the true identity of the Sonyo people
She therefore called on all to be part of this year’s celebration for its enormous benefits .
The Deng festival is celebrated every year but hunting for a rabbit for its sacrifice.
2023 festival is expected to start on 19th May 2023, for a period of three days.
Source: yagbonradioonline
