Oote Anam Festival: Ivite-Anam Monarch Felicitates with Subjects, Pays Trubute to Forbears

By Olisemeka Obeche

The Traditional Ruler of Ivite-Anam Autonomous kingdom in Anambra West Local Government Area of Anambra State, HRH Igwe Sunday Ozoemena (Oranyelu 1) has paid tribute to his subjects as they commemorate the 2025 New Yam Festival, Oote Anam.

Igwe Ozoemena, in a press statement dated, August 16, 2025, sent “”warm greetings to the vibrant and esteemed people of Ivite Anam Kingdom and our Anam people in general”, urging them to celebrate this year’s
Oote ( Otite) Anam, with joy and pride.

The Monarch said: “Historically, Oote Anam is a significant celebration for Ndị Anam, marking our deep respect for our land and the Mother Earth, our gratitude for the year’s yield and harvest and the rich tapestry of our cultural heritage that highlights our traditions of hospitality and communality.

“This festival is not only a feast; it’s a vital moment for unity, tradition, and the spirit of togetherness, where we proudly honor our customs and showcase the breathtaking beauty of our kingdom as well as the relationship between the living and the dead.

Igwe Ozoemena further disclosed that the annual festival was being observed by Anam people across all faiths religions affiliations. “It is a Thanksgiving”, he asserted.

Ozoemena, however, revealed that the newly established Ivite-Anam royal throne would officially mark the 2025 New Yam festival on a low-key tone due to bereavement.

“We kindly ask for your understanding as we focus on honoring the memory of our dearly departed.

“Despite the subdued celebrations, I encourage each one of you to celebrate and engage in the spirit of Oote as they deem fit. Reflect on our glorious traditions, partake in cultural activities and expressions, and unite with family and friends.

“Let us remind ourselves that even amidst sorrow, our community bonds reflect strength and resilience—qualities that truly define us as Ndị Anam.

The royal father charged his subjects to look beyond the feasting part of the annual celebration, and take a moment to honor the legacies of their forebears, as their contributions enrich our lives and continue to inspire our future.

He assured that the kingdom will celebrate its inaugural Oote next year after the formal inauguration of the Royal Cabinet and the first Ovala, set for April 7th 2026.

“I eagerly anticipate celebrating with you all in the manner of our traditions. May the New Yam symbolize our fresh hope for the future we actively seek. Thank you all, and may peace and prosperity flourish in our beloved Land.