In a remarkable showcase of agricultural prowess, Mr Kenneth Ifeakandu, a dedicated yam farmer from Okofia village in Obeledu town, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, clinched the top prize of five hundred thousand Naira for harvesting a record-breaking 95kg yam.
This feat was achieved during the 2024 edition of the Obeledu New Yam Festival, an annual event that celebrates the rich agricultural heritage of the community.
Speaking with reporters after his victory, Mr Ifeakandu expressed immense joy and gratitude, stating that the prize money would be reinvested into his farm to ensure an even more bountiful harvest next year.
“This award is not just a financial reward but a morale booster,” he said. “I plan to expand my farming operations and aim for an even bigger harvest next year, God willing. This is my way of showing gratitude to God for His blessings.”
The Obeledu New Yam Festival is not only a celebration of the yam harvest but also serves as an agricultural exhibition designed to inspire more community members to engage in farming.
Ken Echendu, the President General of the Obeledu Progress Union, highlighted the importance of incorporating an agricultural competition into the festival.
He explained that the event aims to dispel the misconception that the soil in Anaocha is infertile and incapable of supporting robust agricultural activities. “We are challenging the erroneous belief that Anaocha has ‘white land’ that is not good for farming.
This festival is about changing that narrative and proving that our land is indeed fertile and capable of producing abundant crops,” Echendu stated.
He also called on the people of Obeledu to continue supporting his administration, promising that the best days for the community lie ahead.
The inclusion of the yam competition has proven to be a significant motivational factor, encouraging local farmers to push the boundaries of what is possible with their harvests.
The festival’s traditional yam cutting ceremony, performed by the esteemed Igwe of Obeledu, His Royal Highness Igwe AC Oragwam, Ezeoranyelu III, marked the official start of the event.
In his address, Igwe Oragwam expressed gratitude to God for blessing the community with a successful harvest season.
He also emphasised the importance of peace and unity among the people, noting that these values are essential for the continued growth and development of Obeledu.
The royal leader proudly recalled that the yam competition, which has now gained international recognition, originally began in Obeledu, underscoring the community’s long-standing commitment to agricultural excellence.
The Secretary of the Obeledu Media Department, Mr Ikechukwu Okafor, attributed the success of the festival to the harmonious relationships among the people of Obeledu.
He noted that the high level of participation in this year’s festival was a testament to the unity and commitment of the community.
“The 2024 edition of the Obeledu New Yam Festival is particularly special because of the overwhelming participation and the positive spirit among the people. Farms are flourishing, businesses are thriving, and this is a clear indication that God’s favour is upon us,” Mr Okafor remarked.
He expressed optimism that the current Executive Council would continue to lead Obeledu towards even greater achievements.
The event also drew the attention of the Anambra State government, with the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Collins Nwabuwanne, in attendance. He congratulated the people of Obeledu on a successful festival and praised their commitment to agriculture.
Mr Nwabuwanne acknowledged the festival as a reflection of the community’s alignment with the agricultural revolution championed by Governor Charles Soludo’s administration. “I have been attending new yam festivals across the state, and Obeledu stands out for its impressive agricultural achievements.
The state government is committed to supporting communities like Obeledu to further enhance their agricultural capabilities,” he said. He also encouraged other towns and communities in Anambra State to emulate Obeledu’s example, highlighting the potential of agriculture as a vehicle for economic development.
Overall, the 2024 Obeledu New Yam Festival not only celebrated the bounty of the land but also underscored the potential of agriculture to transform lives and communities.
With enthusiastic support from local leaders and the state government, the festival continues to serve as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for agricultural growth in Anambra State.
As Mr Ifeakandu and other farmers look forward to next year’s competition, the Obeledu community remains committed to cultivating a brighter, more prosperous future through farming.
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