Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, the Speaker of Ghana’s eighth Parliament, has been honored with the title “Dakagli Naa” by the chiefs and people of the Wala Traditional Council in the Upper West Region. This prestigious title was bestowed upon him in recognition of his commitment to development, not only in the Upper West Region but across Ghana as a whole.
The enskinment ceremony, which took place on August 28, 2024, at the forecourt of the Wa Naa Palace, was a significant cultural event. Speaker Bagbin was praised by the chiefs and elders for being a dependable, reliable leader who has made substantial contributions to the nation’s progress.
His Royal Majesty Naa Fuseini Seidu Pelpuo IV, the Overlord of the Wala State, who conferred the title, explained that “Dakagli Naa” translates to “Dependable Pond.” The term “Dakagli” refers to a sacred pond in Wa, which serves as a vital source of life and sustenance for the people. The pond is also home to crocodiles, revered as the earth god by the people of Wa. The Overlord stated that Speaker Bagbin embodies the protective, resilient, and community-oriented qualities symbolized by the crocodiles, making him a fitting recipient of this honor.
The ceremony was attended by a wide array of dignitaries, including traditional leaders, members of the NDC party, regional department heads, former Black Stars players, and community members. The Paramount Chief of the Lawra Traditional Area, Naa Puowele Karbo III, who chaired the occasion, praised “Dakagli Naa” Bagbin as “a man of many parts” and lauded his life achievements.
In his acceptance speech, Speaker Bagbin expressed deep gratitude to the Wa Naa, the traditional council, the Imams, and all stakeholders involved in the ceremony. He reflected on the importance of tradition and culture in shaping Ghanaian society and expressed his honor in being recognized in such a meaningful way.
The event was organized by Youth Placement and Employability Solutions Ghana (Y-PES Ghana), a locally based but nationally active non-governmental organization headquartered in the Upper West Region. Y-PES Ghana, established in 2015, initially focused on encouraging youth volunteerism and creating internship opportunities for young people. The organization has since expanded its mission to include youth advocacy through platforms like youth parliaments, and it also celebrates achievers through initiatives such as the Northern Sector Youth and Mentors Achievers’ Awards (NSYMA) and Youth Celebrating Senior Citizens programs.
Speaker Bagbin’s enskinment as Dakagli Naa is not only a personal honor but also a celebration of his dedication to public service and his enduring impact on the nation.
Email Daily Mail GH: stories@dailymailgh.com or
Whatsapp: +233(0)509928122
