Builsa Warriors Enthrall NAFAC 2024 with ‘Lealik’ War Dance.

Techiman: War dancers from the Builsa Traditional Area in the Upper East Region showcased a compelling performance at the 2024 National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFAC), currently being held in Techiman, the capital of the Bono East Region. The dancers, adorned in traditional warring attire and talismans, captivated the audience with their ancient 'Lealik' war dance at the Techiman Methodist School Park.According to Ghana News Agency, the 'Lealik' war dance holds historical significance for the Builsa people, marking the defeat of slave raiders Samori and Babatu, who plagued the Kassena-Nankanas and Builsas in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. These raiders captured natives to sell as slaves during the Gold Coast era, prompting the formation of formidable Builsa warriors who defended their communities with bows and arrows.The festival, under the theme 'Beyond NAFAC at 60, Harnessing Culture, the Pivot for Ghana's Democracy and Sustainable Development', celebrates the rich cultural heritage and t raditions of Ghana. Participants from across the country are performing various traditional dances and showcasing local cuisine to highlight their unique regional cultures.The Volta region participants displayed the 'Klipkpo' dance, showcasing their cultural richness, while the Ashanti region participants presented the ancient 'Adowa' dance. Ashanti warriors further highlighted their cultural heritage by performing rituals that depicted the outdooring of their chiefs and the dance of ancient priests and priestesses who historically protected their communities.The Bono East Region added a dramatic performance to the festivities, emphasizing the importance of national peace, unity, and social cohesion.