This year’s Hogbetsotso Za, the annual festival of the Anlo people, culminated in a grand durbar at Anloga last Saturday, filled with vibrant displays of culture and tradition. The event’s guest of honor was President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Held under the theme, “Strengthening bonds and embracing our shared heritage,” the celebration drew attendees from all 36 Anlo communities, as well as chiefs from across Ghana and neighboring Togo. Citizens from home and abroad gathered to participate in the colorful festivities marking the week-long event.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo delivered a heartfelt farewell, expressing gratitude to Ghanaians for their trust and support during his eight-year tenure. He assured the public of his commitment to a free, fair, transparent, and peaceful upcoming election, affirming that he would respect the Constitution and hand over power to the people’s chosen leader.
The President also praised the Awoamefia of Anlo, Togbe Sri III, for his exemplary leadership in fostering peace within Anlo. He encouraged the Anlo people to continue preserving their cultural heritage as a source of pride for future generations.
Togbe Sri III, the Awoamefia, urged the community to maintain peace as the elections approached, emphasizing that the electoral process should unify rather than divide. He also reminded the government of key concerns, such as the pending Keta Harbour, the protection of the Anlo coastline, and the dredging of the Keta Lagoon. Additionally, he encouraged businesses to take advantage of Anlo’s peaceful environment for investment and growth. Togbe Sri announced plans to elevate certain Anlo towns to paramount status to further decentralize traditional governance.
Awadada Agbesi Awusu II, the Warlord of Anlo, spoke on the importance of Hogbetsotso as a time for unity and forward planning. He highlighted the festival’s role in promoting national cohesion, with chiefs from across the country now participating in the celebrations. He also urged Ghanaians to avoid violence before, during, and after the elections.
The durbar was attended by notable guests, including the New Juabenhene, Daasebre Kwaku Boateng III, and the Omanhene of Oguaa and President of the Oguaa Traditional Council, Osabarima Kwesi Atta II, who called on Ghanaians to uphold their national identity. Chiefs and queens from neighboring Togo also graced the occasion.