Mwaghavul Women Lead the Way in Preserving Culture and Promoting Peace

The National Women Wing of the Mwaghavul Development Association (MDA) on Sunday, 29th December 2025, staged an impressive cultural showcase known as “Gwom Shaar Feast 2025,” literally translated as Food for Friends. The occasion served as a platform for women, cultural troupes, traditional authorities, and public office holders to converge in celebration of harmony, shared identity, and the enduring cultural values of the Mwaghavul people.

The colourful gathering attracted a large audience and featured an array of prominent personalities. Among those who honoured the event with their presence were the First Lady of Plateau State, Her Excellency Barr. Helen Mutfwang; Mrs. Nanbam Ishaya Lalu, wife of the Member representing Mangu/Bokkos Federal Constituency; Hon. Chief Ephraim Usman, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, who presided as Chairman of the Day; and Hon. Emmanuel Bala Mwolpun, Executive Chairman of Mangu Local Government Area, who served as Chief Host.

Other distinguished attendees included Hajiya Jamila Gwandu, Chairlady of the Day; Da. Bulus S. Dabit, President of the Mwaghavul Development Association and Co-Host; Na. Grace Joseph Gora, President of the MDA Women Wing and chief convener of the programme; alongside traditional rulers, women leaders, and notable guests from within and beyond the Mwaghavul nation.

In her opening remarks, Na. Grace Joseph Gora described Gwom Shaar Feast as a cultural expression that reflects unity through diversity, with food serving as a unifying symbol. She explained that the event centres on the preparation and communal sharing of indigenous dishes to nurture friendship, mutual understanding, and solidarity among women and the larger society. She expressed profound gratitude to the Plateau State First Lady for graciously attending despite her demanding schedule, and appreciated all guests for their presence, noting that their support greatly encouraged the Women Wing.

Delivering his address, Hon. Chief Ephraim Usman praised the leadership of the MDA Women Wing for conceptualizing a programme that celebrates cultural heritage and peaceful coexistence. He affirmed that the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs remains committed to supporting initiatives that foster unity and preserve cultural identity, adding that the event would help project the Mwaghavul culture beyond the borders of Plateau State.

In the same vein, Hon. Emmanuel Bala Mwolpun commended the women for their foresight and dedication to sustaining cultural values. He reassured the association of the Mangu Local Government’s readiness to continue partnering with programmes that promote peace, unity, and grassroots development.
Speaking on behalf of the Central Planning Committee, its Chairman, Sur. Jaafaru Dakwal, conveyed sincere appreciation to individuals and organizations whose contributions ensured the success of the feast, describing the massive turnout as evidence of the programme’s significance and acceptance.

The event reached its peak with a lively cultural match-past by various groups, the presentation of awards and gifts to outstanding individuals, and the communal sharing of traditional cuisines, creating an atmosphere rich in colour, excitement, and cultural pride.

In all, Gwom Shaar Feast 2025 emerged as a strong testament to the vital role of women in safeguarding tradition, fostering peace, and reinforcing unity within the Mwaghavul nation.