The Frafra community once again proved their supremacy over rivals Dagaaba, sealing a clean sweep in both football and volleyball at the 2025 Dagaaba–Frafra Friendship Fun Games at the El-Wak Stadium last Saturday.

Frafra stamped their authority with emphatic performances in the 28th edition of the annual celebration of sport, culture and unity.

The women’s football side thrashed Dagaaba 6-0, while the men battled to a 1-1 draw. In volleyball, the Frafras were flawless, winning both the men’s and women’s matches in straight sets.

Although Dagaaba salvaged pride by taking the men’s sack race and the lime-and-spoon event, the Frafra women struck back with victories in both categories, underlining their dominance on the day.

Celebration of sports and culture

The Friendship Games, founded to promote camaraderie through sport and culture, once again delivered on its promise — competition laced with celebration, and rivalry softened by shared tradition.

With traditional songs, food and drinks flowing freely — including the much-cherished delicacy of dog meat — the event was a vibrant showcase of culture.

Distinguished guests and dignitaries mingled freely, reinforcing the event’s reputation as a platform for unity and heritage among indigenes of the Upper East and Upper West regions living in the Accra–Tema metropolis.

Gbankor Naa, Naa Jamaa Matarah II, graced the occasion as Guest of Honour, while Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Yussif Issaka Jajah, represented President John Dramani Mahama as Special Guest.

He praised organisers for sustaining the initiative for nearly three decades.

“Maintaining this programme for over 30 years is remarkable. It strengthens bonds, preserves heritage and promotes unity,” Mr Jajah said.

The stands were filled with notable figures including Richard Kuuire, MP for Nandom and co-founder of the Games; Bede Ziedeng, MP for Lawra; Albert Abongo, former MP for Bongo; Edward Dery, former MP for Lambusie; Prof. Samuel Atintono, Principal of Accra College of Education; Prof. Adams Bondomo of the University of Vienna; Dr Andrews Adugudaa Akolaa of USPA; Naba Abass Akiyizee, Frafra Chief in Accra; and Jacob Adongo, Deputy CEO of the National Youth Authority.

The MP for Ayawaso North added a personal touch, revealing his close ties to the Upper West through his team members.

He pledged support for cultural groups and presented cash to the organisers on behalf of President Mahama, who personally attended the Games in 2023.

“What I loved most was seeing the children playing together, regardless of tribe. It’s inspiring and instils the spirit of unity and togetherness from an early age,” Mr Jahjah noted.