Accra Metropolitan University postpones Dzenten Festival amid Tema-Nungua land dispute

Accra Metropolitan University has postponed the Dzenten Festival, scheduled for Sunday, November 1, 2026, citing security concerns arising from a dispute between the traditional authorities of Tema and Nungua over ownership of land and the Meridian Rock. In a statement issued on Thursday, October 29, signed by Mr Ebenezer T. Hanson, Head of Public Relations and Communications at Accra Metropolitan University, the University said the decision was taken as a precautionary measure until the concerns surrounding the dispute had been addressed. A new date for the festival, which seeks to promote Ghana’s cultural heritage, tourism and economic development, will be announced in due course, the statement said. The University appealed to the traditional authorities of Tema and Nungua to resolve the matter amicably through dialogue, mutual understanding and respect. It said constructive engagement between the two communities would help preserve peace, strengthen relationships and create an enabling environment for initiatives that serve their collective interests. The Dzenten Festival is a cultural heritage initiative designed to showcase Ghana’s heritage and promote the proposed significance of the country as the “Centre of the World”. According to the University, the festival also has the potential to create employment opportunities, support enterprise development and stimulate sustainable economic growth in participating communities and the country as a whole. The University expressed gratitude to traditional authorities, individuals, institutions and partners who had contributed their time, expertise, guidance and resources to the research, conceptualisation and planning of the event. It said it looked forward to continued collaboration with stakeholders towards the successful implementation of the initiative. The University apologised for any inconvenience the postponement might cause invited guests, media organisations, partners, stakeholders and members of the public, while thanking them for their understanding, patience and continued support. It reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cultural heritage, peaceful coexistence and initiatives that contribute to national development.