The Yala New Yam Festival, celebrated annually on August 30th, stands as a symbol of cultural pride and unity for the Yala people of Cross River State. Over the years, the festival has evolved into a grand occasion, attracting participants and spectators from across the state and beyond. A significant force behind this transformation has been the Omgbotuche Ayi Yala Welfare Initiative, a socio-cultural organization that has become synonymous with the festival’s growth and success.
Enlarged Activities by Omgbotuche Ayi Yala
Under the leadership of the Omgbotuche Ayi Yala Welfare Initiative, the Yala New Yam Festival has expanded its scope, offering a wide array of activities that go beyond traditional festivities. The initiative’s commitment to preserving and promoting Yala culture is evident in the various events it organizes:
Traditional Dancing: Dance is a central element of the Yala New Yam Festival, and Omgbotuche Ayi Yala has ensured that this tradition remains vibrant. The initiative sponsors dance troupes from different communities, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Yala through intricate dance performances that captivate audiences.
Eating Competition: A crowd favorite, the eating competition is another event that has gained prominence under the initiative’s sponsorship. This contest not only adds excitement to the festival but also reinforces the communal spirit, as participants engage in friendly rivalry over traditional Yala dishes.
Public Lectures: In addition to entertainment, the festival now serves as a platform for intellectual discourse. Public lectures organized by Omgbotuche Ayi Yala provide an opportunity for scholars, elders, and community leaders to discuss important issues affecting the Yala people, ranging from cultural preservation to socio-economic development.
Charitable Activities: The welfare component of Omgbotuche Ayi Yala’s mission is most visible in its charitable activities. During the festival, the initiative organizes visits to local health centers, providing support to the sick and elderly. These acts of kindness resonate deeply with the community, reinforcing the values of care and compassion that the festival embodies.
A Legacy of Leadership and Vision
The success of Omgbotuche Ayi Yala Welfare Initiative in shaping the Yala New Yam Festival is rooted in the visionary leadership that has guided the organization from its inception. Comrade Okorie Ben Oko, the pioneer head of the association, laid a strong foundation by focusing on unity and cultural revival. His efforts were instrumental in positioning the initiative as a key player in the socio-cultural landscape of Cross River State.
The current leadership under Chief Dominic Ogri has built on this legacy with a humble yet focused approach. Chief Ogri’s tenure has been marked by an expansion of the initiative’s activities, ensuring that the Yala New Yam Festival continues to grow in scale and significance. His leadership is further strengthened by the unwavering support and guidance of the board of trustees, led by Barrister Ogar, whose dedication to the initiative’s mission has been crucial to its sustained success.
A Pillar of Cross River State’s Cultural Landscape
Today, Omgbotuche Ayi Yala Welfare Initiative is recognized as one of the most active socio-cultural organizations in Cross River State. Its impact on the Yala New Yam Festival is profound, as it has transformed the event into a multifaceted celebration that honors tradition while embracing modernity. As the festival continues to thrive under the initiative’s stewardship, the Yala people can take pride in a cultural heritage that is not only preserved but also enriched for future generations.
As the 30th of August approaches, the Yala community and all who hold the festival dear eagerly anticipate another spectacular celebration, thanks to the tireless efforts of Omgbotuche Ayi Yala Welfare Initiative.