The Mwaghavul Development Association (MDA) Women Wing National Body on Sunday, 29th December 2025, successfully hosted a colourful and culturally rich event tagged “Gwom Shaar Feast 2025”, meaning Food for Friends. The celebration brought together women, cultural troupes, traditional institutions, and government officials in a grand display of unity, friendship, and the enduring cultural heritage of the Mwaghavul people.
The well-attended event attracted several distinguished personalities, including the First Lady of Plateau State, Her Excellency Barr. Helen Mutfwang; Mrs. Nanbam Ishaya Lalu, wife of the Member representing Mangu/Bokkos Federal Constituency; and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Chief Ephraim Usman, who served as Chairman of the Day. Also present were the Executive Chairman of Mangu Local Government Area and Chief Host, Hon. Emmanuel Bala Mwolpun, alongside other prominent dignitaries.
Other notable attendees included Hajiya Jamila Gwandu, Chairlady of the Day; Da. Bulus S. Dabit, President of the Mwaghavul Development Association and Co-Host; and Na. Grace Joseph Gora, President of the MDA Women Wing and Host of the event. Traditional rulers, women leaders, and guests from within and outside the Mwaghavul nation also graced the occasion.
In her welcome address, Na. Grace Joseph Gora described the Gwom Shaar Feast as a symbol of the Mwaghavul people’s cultural diversity and communal spirit, expressed through the preparation and sharing of food. She explained that the event is designed to strengthen bonds of friendship, promote love, and foster unity among women and the larger community. She expressed profound appreciation to the First Lady of Plateau State for honouring the invitation despite her busy schedule and thanked all dignitaries and participants for their overwhelming support.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Chief Ephraim Usman commended the leadership of the MDA Women Wing for initiating a culturally significant programme that promotes peace, unity, and identity. He noted that the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs remains committed to supporting initiatives that preserve cultural heritage and project the Mwaghavul nation positively beyond Plateau State.
Similarly, the Executive Chairman of Mangu LGA, Hon. Emmanuel Bala Mwolpun, praised the women for their vision and dedication to cultural preservation, assuring them of the continued support of the local government in programmes that enhance peace, unity, and grassroots development.
On behalf of the Central Planning Committee, the Chairman, Sur. Jaafaru Dakwal, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all individuals and organizations whose contributions ensured the success of the event, describing the impressive turnout as a clear indication of the programme’s relevance and acceptance.
Highlights of the celebration included a vibrant cultural match-past by various groups, the presentation of awards and gifts to deserving individuals, and the sharing of traditional meals, all of which added colour and excitement to the feast.
Overall, Gwom Shaar Feast 2025 stood as a powerful testament to the pivotal role of women in preserving cultural values, promoting peace, and strengthening communal bonds within the Mwaghavul nation.