Chief Onyemelukwe Eusebius Zonyelu, a renowned financial expert and aspirant for the upcoming Anambra South Senatorial District By-Election in December 2024, was a key figure at the New Yam Festival celebration held at the Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka. The event, organized by the Anambra State Government, provided a platform for the prominent leader to reflect on the cultural and agricultural significance of the festival.
In his address, Chief Onyemelukwe underscored the deep cultural importance of the New Yam Festival in Igbo society. He described it as not only a celebration of life but also the culmination of the farming season, symbolizing abundance, gratitude, and the continuity of life. “The New Yam Festival is a time to celebrate our rich heritage, honor our ancestors, and acknowledge the vital role agriculture plays in sustaining our community,” he said.
Emphasizing the relevance of farming in modern Anambra, Chief Onyemelukwe expressed his full support for the Anambra State Government’s initiative to encourage citizens to engage more actively in farming. He noted that agriculture could provide a sustainable means of livelihood, not only helping families to become self-sufficient but also contributing to the broader national food supply.
“As we gather today to celebrate the New Yam Festival, let us remember the importance of agriculture in our daily lives,” Chief Onyemelukwe stated. “Farming is not just a tradition; it is an essential part of our survival and growth. Every Anambrarian has a role to play in ensuring that our state thrives, and by supporting farming initiatives, we can alleviate hunger and provide for future generations.”
The focus on agriculture is timely, as Anambra State remains heavily reliant on farming, with key crops such as yam, rice, and cassava playing a central role in the local economy. Chief Onyemelukwe’s vision of empowering the people of Anambra, particularly in the face of current economic challenges, centers on strengthening agricultural productivity and ensuring food security.
His participation in the New Yam Festival also aligns with his broader political campaign for the upcoming Senatorial by-election. As a candidate, Chief Onyemelukwe has emphasized the need for better representation and more sustainable solutions to the pressing issues facing the people of Anambra South. His message resonates with the community, where calls for more equitable representation in the Senatorial District have been growing.
With the by-election just around the corner, Chief Onyemelukwe’s engagement with the people, his focus on critical issues such as agriculture, food security, and economic empowerment, has earned him significant support among the electorate in Anambra South. His commitment to the region’s growth and prosperity positions him as a leader capable of fostering positive change for the people of Anambra State and beyond.
