afife: The Central Planning Committee of the 2025 Anlo Hogbetsotso Festival has officially launched this year's celebrations, announcing the festival theme, a logo, and a detailed programme of activities.
According to Ghana News Agency, a ceremony was held at the Ohawu Agricultural College in the Afife Traditional Area to unveil the theme for the year's festival: 'Building Bridges: From a Common History to a Common Destiny.' Mr. Agbeko Mattah, a committee member, explained that the theme emphasizes the importance of unity among the Anlo people, preserving their shared history, and pursuing a future focused on peace and development.
The festival's programme includes a wide range of cultural, traditional, educational, and social events throughout the Anlo State over several weeks. There will be a ban on drumming and noisemaking from October 7 to 27, a Leadership Seminar for Chiefs and Traditional Leaders from October 8 to 10 at Anloga, and a Mini Durbar at Mafi Adidome on October 25.
Also scheduled is a Children's Durbar and Inter-School Quiz Competition on October 29, involving basic and senior high schools across Anlo. A Nugbidodo (Reconciliation Rites) will take place on October 30 at Agorwornu, followed by a Unity Concert at Anloga. Pre-Festival Day on October 31 will include the Awoamefia, Togbi Sri III, receiving visitors alongside other paramount chiefs.
The festival will feature the Volta Economic Forum at the Reddington Hotel in Whuti and the Glimetoto (Exodus Reenactment) at Anloga in the evening. The Mama Hogbe Cultural Pageant will be hosted at the premises of Jubilee Radio. The Grand Durbar, a highlight event, will be held on November 1 at Hogbe Park in Anloga to conclude the festival.
Post-Durbar events will include a Beach Party at Emancipation Beach in Keta on November 2, followed by interfaith thanksgiving services and post-festival activities in various towns from November 3 to 9. Mr. Mattah noted that each activity is designed to showcase Anlo's rich cultural heritage, foster unity, and strengthen bonds among citizens both locally and abroad.
In addition to the theme announcement, the committee also introduced an official festival logo, which signifies the festival's credibility and public endorsement. The logo features a three-color design highlighting artistic elements, explained by Mr. Jonathan Kofi Kumordzie, Head of the Graphic Design Committee.
The logo's Golden Sphere and Sun symbolize a new dawn and the richness of Anlo culture, while the Footprints represent the 'Tsotso' or historic migration. The Communal Pot signifies unity and shared heritage, and the Celebrating Silhouettes reflect the joy and cultural expression of the Anlo people.
