Pres Akufo-Addo, traditional rulers grace 2024 Hogbetsotso

Some of the women display their cultural at the Hogbetsotsoza.

 A portray of Ghana’s rich cultur­al heritage was mounted at the 2024 Hogbetsotso Za festival on Saturday, November 2, in Keta in the Volta Region.

Themed “Strengthening bonds and embracing our shared heritage,” it drew numerous figures includ­ing President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, government officials and Members of Parliament, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, running mate of Mr John Dramani Mahama of the NDC in the December election, among others.

The event was also graced by the Overlord of the Anlo state, the Awomefia Togbe Sri III, the Para­mount Chief of the Oguaa Tradi­tional Area, Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II; and a host of other traditional rulers, with representatives from almost every paramount chief in the country.

The grand durbar showcased the vibrant culture of the Anlo people amidst drumming, singing, and dance performances.

‘Hogbetsotso’ is derived from the word ‘Hogbe’ or ‘Hohogbe,’ trans­lated to mean the day of exodus.

It marks the moment in time when the Ewes in the Dogbo quarter of the walled city of Notsie in Togo, escaped from the tyran­nical ruler Agorkorli by walking backwards.

In order to com­memorate the exodus and the bravery of their traditional rulers who led them on the journey, the people created the annual festi­val now referred to as ‘Festival of the Exodus.’