Historic Win at New Yam Festival in Obeledu
Kenneth Ifeakandu, a native of Obeledu in Anaocha Local Government Area, Anambra State, made history at the 2024 New Yam Festival by winning N500,000 for harvesting the heaviest yam. The impressive yam weighed a massive 95kg, earning Ifeakandu recognition and the top prize in the community’s annual yam competition.
A Boost for Agriculture in Obeledu
The “Yam Competition” was a key highlight of Obeledu’s New Yam Festival, aimed at promoting agriculture within the community. According to the organisers, the event was designed to inspire youth to embrace farming and contribute to food sufficiency. Ifeakandu expressed his joy, revealing plans to reinvest the prize money into expanding his farm.
Encouraging Agricultural Growth
Speaking on the event, Ken Echendu, the President General of Obeledu Progress Union, highlighted the importance of the agricultural show. He noted that the competition is part of a larger effort to change the perception that the region’s land is not fertile. Echendu also emphasised that this initiative aligns with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s agricultural revolution in Anambra State.
Celebrating a Bountiful Harvest
The traditional ruler of Obeledu, Igwe AC Oragwam, commended the community for embracing agriculture and fostering peace. He performed the traditional yam cutting ceremony, symbolising a prosperous harvest season for the entire community. Oragwam encouraged the people of Obeledu to maintain peace, which he described as the foundation for continued growth.
Fertiliser Distribution and Future Prospects
As part of the event, fertilisers were distributed to local farmers to encourage increased agricultural output in the coming season. The Secretary of Obeledu Media Department, Ikechukwu Okafor, praised the executive council for ensuring the festival’s success and supporting farmers with tools for future harvests. Okafor expressed optimism about the community’s agricultural future.
Government’s Support for Local Agriculture
The Anambra State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Collins Nwabuwanne, who attended the event, lauded Obeledu’s efforts in promoting agriculture. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting such initiatives as part of the state’s broader agricultural revolution. Nwabuwanne expressed confidence that Obeledu will continue to thrive agriculturally in the coming years.
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