The Anlo Dukor Council, which constitutes 36 traditional states, celebrated its 2025 Hogbetsotso Festival in grand style at Hogbe Park, Anloga, on Saturday
The festival drew thousands of celebrants from across Ghana and beyond, including several traditional rulers, political leaders, and dignitaries. Among the notable attendees were the Awomefia of Anlo Dukor Council, Torgbiga Sri III, the overlord of the Anlo State, and the Awadada of Anlo, Torgbui Agbesi Awusu II, who serves as the war leader of the Anlo Dukor Council. Also in attendance were Odeneho Akwafo Akoto III, the overlord of Akwamu, and other respected chiefs from across the country.
Several political figures also graced the colourful occasion, including His Eminence Dr. Gabriel Kwamigah Tanko Atokple, Council of State Member representing the Volta Region, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, NDC National Chairman Hon. Asiedu Nketia, and Volta Regional Minister Hon. James Gunu, among others. Cultural groups, musicians, church leaders, and many other organizations also participated in the celebration, showcasing the unity and diversity of the Anlo people.
The Hogbetsotso Festival is an annual celebration held by the people of Anlo to commemorate the historic migration of their forefathers from Notsie, under the leadership of Torgbiga Wenya and others, escaping the tyranny of King Agorkorli. The festival symbolizes freedom, unity, and the resilience of the Anlo people.
During the festival, Hon. James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, delivered a keynote address on behalf of the government. He assured the people of Anlo that the NDC government, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, remains committed to the development of the Volta Region. He highlighted that several road projects in deplorable condition are currently under construction, while others are about to begin.
He also mentioned that the second phase of the Keta Sea Defence Project is ongoing, aimed at protecting communities such as Adina, Salakorpe, Agavedzi, and other coastal areas from the devastating effects of tidal waves. He further reiterated government’s determination to improve infrastructure and livelihoods across the region.
Following the festival, Fafaa 100.3 FM, during its morning show hosted by Abass Seidu, interviewed Mr. Francis Azorliade, a member of the festival’s publicity committee. Mr. Azorliade stated that this year’s Hogbetsotso Festival focused on promoting peace, unity, and development across the Anlo Dukor Council.
According to him, the council hopes that through the unity fostered by this festival, more developmental projects will be realized — notably, the conversion of Ohawu Agricultural College into a University, and the revival of the proposed Keta Harbour Project, which had been left uncompleted by the previous government. He emphasized that the people of Anlo expect to see genuine commitment toward the construction of a proper harbour, as it will significantly boost economic growth and employment opportunities in the region.
In his remarks, Mr. Azorliade further explained that the Hogbetsotso Festival continues to serve as a powerful platform for reconciliation and unity among the 36 traditional states of Anlo. He expressed gratitude to all the participating chiefs, elders, and community members for their continuous support and called on them to use the festival as an opportunity to strengthen the bond of brotherhood and foster development within the Anlo State.
He also used the opportunity to commend the Awomefia, Torgbiga Sri III, for his outstanding leadership and dedication to promoting peace and cultural preservation among the Anlo people. According to him, the Awomefia’s vision for unity and development remains an inspiration to the youth and future generations of Anlo. He further urged all indigenes, both home and abroad, to continue contributing to the progress of their traditional states and the nation at large.
The 2025 Hogbetsotso Festival was marked by traditional drumming and dancing, cultural displays, and prayers for peace and prosperity, reaffirming the deep heritage and unity of the Anlo people.
By Hutor Dziwornu, Fafaa 100.3 FM, Dzodze