In a compelling conversation on PM Jam on Melody FM, celebrated host Haruna Babangida welcomed two leading voices of the Supreme Masqueraders, Sir Isaac, the acting CEO, and Executive Member Boss Pee, for a dialogue that was as enlightening as it was inspiring. As Takoradi’s most prominent masquerade group marks its 25th anniversary, the executives took the opportunity to reflect on their journey, elaborate on their community-centered mission, and outline the ambitious lineup of events commemorating this significant milestone.
Founded on January 3rd, 2000, the Supreme Masqueraders have evolved from a fringe masquerade troupe into a cultural institution, anchoring a dynamic tradition once dismissed as a pastime for the unruly and transforming it into a symbol of pride, unity, and upward mobility. With over 30 operational branches across the Western and Central Regions, Supreme has grown into a network of influence that attracts participation not only locally but from across Ghana and the international diaspora, including enthusiasts from the Caribbean.
This year’s anniversary, themed “My Community, My Responsibility,” is not merely a celebration; it is a manifesto. A declaration that masquerading, beyond its vibrant pageantry, holds the potential to shape character, build communities, and inspire youth. As Sir Isaac noted, “This is not just a costume. It’s a culture. And if we are to preserve it, we must practice and pass it down with integrity.” Central to this commitment is the Dress Well Campaign, launched in response to a growing trend among some participants to forgo the full masquerade regalia in favor of casual pairings like white T-shirts and Fancy pants. The campaign is a call to return to form, a cultural renaissance, insisting that the masquerade is not a half-hearted display but a complete artistic and cultural expression. “What we wear is part of the statement we make. It must reflect dignity, identity, and discipline,” Sir Isaac stressed.
Among the slate of activities marking the silver jubilee is a school rehabilitation initiative, including the repainting and securing of selected public school buildings in Takoradi. The group is also organizing an inter-branch sports festival, designed to foster cohesion across its sprawling network. Additionally, a Junior High School quiz competition is set to commence on May 28th, targeting academic excellence and intellectual engagement among the region’s youth.
On June 3rd, Supreme will host a comprehensive community health screening at the local community center, providing free checks for malaria, eye health, dental issues, and blood pressure, a testament to the group’s holistic vision of wellness for its members and the broader public.
Further afield, the group plans to extend its civic intervention to Apremdo, where a borehole project is in the works to alleviate the community’s water access challenges. Funding for this and other outreach programs is expected to be generated through a Dinner and Fundraising Night, one of the marquee events of the anniversary celebrations. As part of its cultural showcase, the Supreme Masqueraders will host their own version of the Float—a high-spirited street procession that mirrors the famed December Carnival but remains distinct in both scope and identity. While the December Float sees all Fancy Clubs join forces in a unified spectacle, the Anniversary Float is a Supreme-exclusive celebration of legacy, identity, and resilience.
The host of the PM Jam on Melody FM Haruna Babangida raised the possibility of a future collaboration with Indomie to host an Indomie Fest at the Takoradi Mall Events Grounds, an event that could add culinary excitement and broader appeal to the program. While the partnership is not yet confirmed, both parties expressed optimism about the value such a collaboration could bring to the event.
Perhaps one of the most innovative undertakings is the Ankos Village Project, envisioned as a hospitality and rest zone for revelers. Complete with food vendors, live band music, and shaded seating, the village will serve as a sanctuary for masqueraders who pour into Takoradi from across the globe for the December festivities. It’s a clear signal that Supreme is not only concerned with performance but with the full masquerading experience. The executives were also candid in addressing some of the subcultural dynamics within the Fancy community, chief among them the “Ankos Politics” that flare up on social media. These rivalries, marked by humorous banter and intense loyalty, reflect a deep emotional investment in the masquerading tradition. Yet, the Supreme leadership is keen to ensure that these engagements remain constructive and culturally enriching.
On the issue of costume pricing and exclusivity, Sir Isaac clarified that the high cost of the masquerade attire is often misunderstood. “The price includes annual dues and contributions toward our community projects. And our policy of never repeating outfits is deliberate—it keeps our audience returning year after year to witness something new and breathtaking.” Supreme continues to appeal to stakeholders, particularly within government and tourism circles, to recognize the carnival’s potential as an economic driver for the region. “We’ve reached out to the Regional Administration and the Ministry of Tourism on several occasions,” Sir Isaac noted. “So far, there has been little movement. But with the change in government, we are hopeful that more collaborative efforts can emerge.”
Finally, he extended an open invitation to the residents of Takoradi, particularly those yet to affiliate with any masquerade group, to join the Supreme Masqueraders. Registration and costume measurements are currently ongoing at their permanent secretariat at Esikafoambatem Number 1, a facility that symbolizes the group’s stability and long-term vision. As the Supreme Masqueraders commemorate 25 years of vibrant culture, disciplined growth, and community service, their legacy reminds us that behind the masks lie not just performers but patriots, builders, and visionaries crafting a tradition that belongs to the future as much as it does to the past.