DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 17 (MExN): The Ayemi Kughuko Küghakulu Nagaland (AKKN) marked its 25th anniversary with a grand celebration at Samson Phu, Agahuto, Chuomukedima, under the theme ‘Reclaim Our Roots’ on November 16. The event was attended by prominent leaders and members of the Ayemi and Sumi communities.
Chairman Howoto Avemi began the festivities by extending warm greetings to all attendees, reflecting on the 25-year journey of the union. He paid tribute to the pioneering members of Ayemi Kughuko Küghakulu, highlighting their visionary contributions in establishing the union and fostering relationships between the Ayemi and Sumi communities. He also expressed his gratitude to Samson Ayemi and his family for hosting the event and providing the land for the jubilee celebrations.
In his address, Tovihoto Ayemi, MLA and Advisor for Tribal Affairs and Election, emphasized the importance of acknowledging the roots of the Ayemi clan. He supported the suggestion made by Kakihe Ayemi on establishing a committee to research the clan’s migration history. Ayemi also spoke on the need for unity among the Sumi people, urging the Ayemi clan to act as ambassadors of peace, unity, and reconciliation. He encouraged collaboration across Naga political organizations for a swift and unified resolution to the Naga political issue.
Hekani Ayemi Jakhalu, MLA and Advisor for Industries and Commerce, also spoke, urging the community to honor their history and continue the legacy of simplicity, humility, and straightforwardness. She stressed the importance of self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship, advocating for the younger generation to take charge of the Ayemi clan's future.
Kakihe Ayemi, Chairman of Tuku Kughuko Kuposhukulu and Additional Director of Tourism, highlighted the importance of preserving the Ayemi clan’s history and suggested a more formal approach to documenting their migration roots through research.
The celebration also featured the unveiling of a commemorative 25th Silver Jubilee Stone by Rev. Dr. Kashito Ayemi, followed by the release of a special souvenir and the second edition of Ayemi Kughuko Xüle 2024 by Tovihoto Ayemi and Zhevishe Ayemi, respectively. The event concluded with heartfelt prayers and a jubilee fest, marking a historic milestone for the Ayemi community.
The jubilee celebrations were chaired by V Asheto Aayemi, Convenor of the Planning Board, and Y. Hokiye Ayemi, Jubilee Secretary. The program also included performances and a vote of thanks by Y. Lahoto Ayemi, General Secretary of AKKN.
This milestone marks not only the history of Ayemi Kughuko Küghakulu but also sets the tone for future generations to carry forward the legacy of peace, unity, and cultural preservation within the Sumi and broader Naga communities.
