Hon. Dr. Kwarpo Mathew Sylvanus, Member representing Mangu South, has taken his peace and unity campaign directly to the grassroots at a popular local game spot in Ampang West, Mangu Local Government Area of the state.
The local games competition, which was organized under the Balka (Unite) Mangu South platform, is aimed at fostering community cohesion, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting indigenous recreational activities among the people.
Speaking at the finals of the competition on Sunday, Hon. Kwarpo said he keyed into the local games after discovering that they depict unity and peaceful coexistence among the people.
“And so we keyed into it as part of our legislative engagement, encouraging the people to showcase the rich cultural heritage of their community,” he said.
He added that the competition is significant to the community because it is the hometown of Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, and it aligns with the peace messages the Governor has been promoting, encouraging the people to imbibe the spirit of love, unity, and sportsmanship.
One of the winners, Mr. Santus John, who spoke on behalf of the Chelsea team that won the card competition in a tense contest featuring 12 teams, said the game is very engaging and unites both the youth and the elderly, while promoting peace among participants.
The winner of the draughts competition, Mr. Danzaria Pankyes, described it as a privilege to emerge victorious among 13 participants. He said the game unites them, helps them forget the troubles of the world, and strengthens relationships among players. He further noted that at the game spot, they sometimes contribute money to support one another in times of need.
Mr. Bisat Nanle Hosea, winner of the Tubbwor (local draughts), said it is a game they grew up watching their forefathers play and eventually inherited. He noted that it is historic and that whenever they gather to play, both players and spectators forget their sorrows.
According to Bisat, even if someone insults another during the course of the game, it is taken in good spirit and ends there.
The players thanked the lawmaker for organizing the competition and also appreciated the local organizing team for being fair to all participants throughout the event.
Upon arriving in Ampang West, the lawmaker and his entourage paid homage to the Acting District Head of Ampang West, Da Ado Shehu, during a brief meeting before interacting with party officials at the ward level.
The initiative has continued to draw commendation from residents, who see it as a timely effort to promote peace, engagement, and cultural pride within the constituency, as the lawmaker pledged to extend the gesture to other communities.
About The Author
More Stories