Damba Festival

Chiefs on horses, drumming, people dancing and women singing. In this period an important Dagomba festival is being celebrated; The Damba Festival. The festival is spread over a two week period and ends with a big dance at the palace of the Dagomba King. All the chiefs from the villages around Yendi come on their horses to the palace to greet the king, present gifts and so pay allegiance to his leadership.

'Chiefs on their horses'

'the horses are beautifully dressed for the occasion'

On occasions like this we often try to visit the palace as a family. There is always an enormous crowd of people who just like us try to catch a glimpse of the king and the skilful dancers. Samuel and Micah think it’s great – and are especially impressed by the gunshots, which are fired as a way of honouring the king.

'Abukari and Micah are greeted by a drummer. Abukari has also put on his traditional dress for the occasion'

'small children belonging to the drummers' family also come out to show their skills, in return people listening give them a few coins'

Thank God for:

• good health
• the work we have been able to do over the past weeks
• the joy of serving God

Pray that:

• this celebration will pave the way for lasting peace and unity among the Dagomba people
• for ongoing meetings and training we are involved at this time of year
• for energy and protection from meningitis; it is extremely hot at the moment and the weather conditions are ideal for spreading the disease – which has already claimed the lives of approx 30 people in the Northern part of Ghana so far this year