Correspondece from Eastern Region The Shai Traditional Council has officially launched the 2025 edition of the Ngmayem Festival under the theme, "Protecting Our Environment through Culture and Tradition." The festival, which commemorates the historical resilience of the Shai people, will feature a four-week itinerary beginning in Manya Jorpanya from September 22 to 29, before moving to Dodowa, Ayikuma, and Kordiabe in subsequent weeks.
Often referred to as the Millet Festival, the Ngmayem is one of the most culturally significant events in the Shai calendar.
It traces its origins to the Great Harvest of 1892, which followed a devastating seven-year drought.
Revived in 1959 after colonial interruptions, the festival today symbolizes the spiritual resilience of the Shai people and stands as a testament to their unity and cultural pride.
