Keta: Businesses in Keta and Anloga district in the Volta Region are buzzing with anticipation as the much-awaited 2025 Hogbetsotso festival approaches. The annual festival, scheduled for the first Saturday of November every year, is expected to draw thousands of visitors and tourists, boosting local businesses and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Anlo people.
According to Ghana News Agency, local entrepreneur Mr. Paul Mensah Dzilah expressed optimism about the economic benefits the festival would bring, potentially improving local businesses. “With visitors expected to visit Keta and Anloga, the traditional capital of the Anlo State, we expect nothing but booming sales in traditional crafts, clothing, food, and hospitality services,” he said. He explained that the influx of tourists presents opportunities for local artisans to showcase and sell their products.
The Hogbetsotso festival commemorates the Anlo people’s historic exodus from Notsie, in present-day Togo, under the rule of King Agorkoli. The celebration, featuring social, cultural, and traditional events, including the Agbadza dance, reconciliation rituals, and purification ceremonies, highlights the rich cultural traditions for tourists and visitors.
Mr. Dzilah noted that past festivals have attracted dignitaries and tourists both nationwide and internationally, promoting Ghana’s cultural richness. Businesses such as restaurants, hotels, beaches, boutiques, and drinking spots are expected to see increased customer numbers during the festival period.
Madam Charity Nyagorme, a restaurant operator at Anloga Avume, expressed disappointment about last year’s sales and anticipated that the 2025 edition would attract more visitors. She noted that the previous festival was affected by election campaigns, which impacted the festival’s success.
The GNA gathered that the Hogbetsotso festival features a grand durbar at Hogbe Park in Anloga, where chiefs don colorful regalia and receive homage. Activities such as sports competitions, pageants, music festivals, and the Children’s Hogbe engage young ones in cultural heritage, fostering unity and celebration of Anlo traditions.
Major Anlo towns, including Keta, Anloga, Kedzi, Vodza, and others, actively participate in the festival, showcasing their heritage. Togbi Sri III, the Awoamefia of Anlo State, has advocated for progress in various sectors to boost economic growth and job creation.
Pre-festival peace-making ceremonies prioritize unity and harmonious living for the progress of Anloland. The GNA observed that local authorities are finalizing arrangements for a memorable celebration, and a ban on noise-making has been announced to pave the way for important rituals.