Chiefs and people of the 36 states of Anlo will on Saturday, August 24 launch their annual traditional festival, Hogbetsotsoza at Tsiame in the Keta Municipality.
The launch will pave way for the beginning of the famous festival also known as Hogbeza, which commemorates the legendary exodus of the Ewe-Dogbo folks from Notsie in present-day neighbouring Togo.
Mr Ken Kpedor, President of Anlo Youth Council, the umbrella body of the youth of Anlo, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, said the selection of Tsiame, known as the traditional military headquarters of Anlo as the venue for the launch was due to its deep historical significance.
He said as a key location in the history of Anlo, which holds symbolic importance in the cultural and political evolution of the Anlo people, the launch would not only help flaunt the community but also draw support from citizens towards its development.
“Launching the festival at Tsiame provides a unique opportunity to not only celebrate its role in Anlo’s past but also to draw national attention to the pressing development challenges faced by the Tsiame community.
In line with this, the launch is strategically positioned to symbolise a declaration of war on poverty, signaling the collective resolve of Anlo to confront socio-economic difficulties head-on.
By choosing Tsiame, the launch serves as both a cultural affirmation and a call to action, focusing on the advancement of this historically significant community.”
Chairing the launch, which will be used to raise public awareness of the festival and to rally support for its celebration from the citizens, is Togbi Agbesi Awusu II, Awadada of Anlo with Dr Ken Edem Ashigbey, Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications, as the Guest Speaker.
Mr Kpedor called on all citizens of Anlo, especially the youth, to come home, give their support in celebrating the single most important event on the Anlo calendar.
“As the Lead for Hogbetsotsoza 2024 Planning, I am calling on all the vibrant and passionate youth of Anlo to rise and play your part in making this year’s festival the best ever! Hogbe is not just a festival; it is a celebration of our shared heritage, our strength, and our unity.
It is a symbol of our resilience, and this year, we aim to set the bar even higher.
To do this, we need you.
Your energy, your ideas, your resources, and your support are crucial in ensuring Hogbe remains the premier festival in Ghana.
Whether through your time, talents, or resources, every contribution counts toward making this a celebration that reflects the pride and greatness of Anlo.”
The 2024 Hogbeza, which organisation is being led by the Anlo Youth Council will be held on the theme: “Strengthening Bonds and Embracing Our Shared Heritage.”
