SOCIAL

Wangara queen appeals for unity in pursuit of development

Hajia Mariam Abubakar Kendaar, the queen of the Wangara community in the Greater Accra region, has called on leaders of the various Wangara communities in the country to unite and work closely with their people to promote socio-economic development in their areas.

Date Created : 1/14/2026 : Story Author : Muyid Deen Suleman/Ghanadistricts.com

She noted that, without unity and effective collaboration, meaningful progress could not be realized in their communities, adding that working together as one people was necessary to promote development. 

Hajia Kendaar made the call when she paid a courtesy call on Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim Gado Watara, the head of the Wangara community in the Ashanti Region, at his palace in Kumasi. 

The Wangara people in Ghana, a Mande-speaking diaspora, are descendants of Soninke traders from the ancient Ghana Empire.  

They are celebrated for their long-distance commerce and scholarly contributions to Islam, playing a pivotal role in the gold trade between the Sahel and forest regions. 

Historically, they established trading colonies and influenced local cultures in areas such as Kintampo and Salaga, harmoniously integrating into indigenous societies while preserving their distinct identities. 

Hajia Kendaar emphasized that effective leadership was paramount in navigating the myriads of challenges faced by a community, while simultaneously promoting their rich heritage and traditions. 

She asserted that it was imperative for the Wangara community in Ghana to establish a common platform for articulating grievances, thereby facilitating development. 

Moreover, she implored the leadership to transcend their differences in pursuit of a shared objective. 

Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim Gado Watara, on his part, said the visit by Hajia Kendaar was not just symbolic, but served to fortify the bonds between various factions, fostering a spirit of solidarity and collaboration. 

He acknowledged that her role as queen entailed significant responsibilities and expectations, as she was now regarded as the custodian of the culture and values of the Wangara people.  

He urged her to extend respect to the elders and ensure that matters presented to her are addressed with diligence and care.