By Juliana Nwachukwu
The traditional ruler of Ojoto in Idemili South Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State, Igwe Gerald Mbamalu, Oranyelu II, has announced plans to reward farmers who produce the biggest yam in the community as part of next year’s new yam festival.
Igwe Mbamalu made the announcement on Aug. 15 at Oye Market Square, Ojoto, during the community’s 2026 new yam festival.
The monarch urged Ndi Ojoto to embrace agriculture and large scale farming as a means of tackling hunger, improving food production and strengthening food security.
He encouraged civil servants, traders and people engaged in other businesses to venture into farming, stressing that agriculture should not be left solely to those traditionally regarded as farmers.
Igwe Mbamalu described the new yam festival as an important cultural occasion that celebrates the harvest and gives the people an opportunity to appreciate the fruits of their labour.
He noted that yam remains an important food crop and a significant part of the cultural heritage of the Igbo people, urging the community to preserve the tradition while encouraging greater interest in agriculture.
Speaking at the event, the APC candidate for Idemili North and South Federal Constituency, Dr. Barr. Kingsley K. Ezekwelu, commended Igwe Mbamalu and his cabinet for their leadership and prayed for continued wisdom and strength for the monarch.
Ezekwelu described the festival as a celebration of rich cultural heritage and an opportunity for the community to give thanks for a successful farming season.
Also speaking, the Anambra Central Zonal Vice Chairman of the APC, High Chief Augustine A. Momaife, Ichie Omeziriuzo Ojoto, highlighted the traditional significance of the celebration, noting that the monarch traditionally eats the new yam first before other members of the community.
The festival attracted palace officials, cabinet chiefs, politicians, government functionaries, captains of industry, traditional medicine practitioners and cultural groups.
The celebration featured colourful masquerade displays, traditional dances and other cultural performances, providing residents and visitors an opportunity to celebrate Ojoto’s heritage while marking the beginning of the new yam season.
Juliana Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
