Nkonya Tayi in the Oti Region came alive during the 2026 Easter festivities as residents, traditional authorities and dignitaries gathered for a colourful and impactful celebration. The event, hosted by the town this year, combined cultural display with a strong focus on development and unity, making it one of the most memorable Easter occasions in recent times.
A major highlight of the celebration was the installment of the Member of Parliament for the Biakoye Constituency, Hon. Jean-Marie Formadi, as the Development Queen Mother (Nkosuo Hemaa) of Nkonya Tayi. The traditional ceremony was conducted in line with local customs, during which she was sworn in and took an oath of allegiance to serve the people faithfully in her new role. Her acceptance of the honour was met with excitement and pride among residents.
The programme was chaired by Mr Moses Ansah, with Nanayi Kwadjo Addae Nkansah III serving as co-chair. The event also attracted several high-profile personalities, including the Member of Parliament for the Hohoe Constituency, Hon. Worlanyo Thomas Tsekpo, a native of Alavanyo Kpeme, whose presence underscored the importance of the occasion.
Speakers at the event commended the people of Nkonya Tayi for their unity and commitment to development. They stressed the need for continued collaboration between traditional leaders, political authorities and community members to accelerate progress in the area.
Hon. Jean-Marie Formadi’s installment was largely in recognition of her significant contributions to development within the Biakoye Constituency. She has been widely acknowledged for her efforts in empowering women and improving access to healthcare services. As part of activities marking the occasion, she commenced ground clearing works for the construction of a new ward at the Kwamekrom Health Centre in the Anlokordzi electoral area. The project is expected to enhance healthcare delivery for residents and nearby communities.
In addition, funds were raised during the celebration to support the construction of nurses’ quarters at the Comfort Offedie Health Center. The initiative is aimed at improving accommodation for health workers, thereby motivating them to deliver quality healthcare services.
Hon. Worlanyo Thomas Tsekpo also contributed significantly to the success of the programme by donating one hundred bags of cement and an undisclosed sum of money towards development projects. In his address, he spoke about the prevailing peace between Nkonya and Alavanyo, describing it as a positive development that must be safeguarded. He cautioned that any individual or group attempting to disrupt the peace would be dealt with decisively, emphasising the importance of maintaining harmony between the two neighbouring communities.
The 2026 Easter celebration at Nkonya Tayi stands out not only for its vibrant cultural atmosphere but also for its emphasis on development and unity. The installment of Hon. Jean-Marie Formadi as Development Queen Mother reflects the confidence reposed in her leadership and her continued commitment to improving the lives of her constituents.
Story by Lawrencia Ohenewa Obeng
