Winneba: The ancient city of Winneba is bustling with activity as the chiefs and people of Effutu conclude their week-long Aboakyer festival today.
According to Ghana News Agency, hundreds of people, including both citizens and foreigners, have gathered in the coastal city to partake in the annual traditional celebration. The Presbyterian School Park, designated as the venue for the grand durbar, is already filled with attendees eagerly awaiting the occasion.
The chiefs of the traditional area have made a grand entrance at the durbar grounds, adorned in their traditional attire as part of a majestic procession. This year’s festival is themed ‘Championing our ancestral legacy.’
To ensure safety and order during the festivities, a joint team of security personnel, comprising the Police Service, Immigration Service, Fire Service, and National Security, has been deployed.
Participants, particularly the youth, are seen parading the streets with unique appearances. Meanwhile, various traders and food vendors are capitalizing on the increased foot traffic, enjoying brisk sales.
The Aboakyer festival, meaning animal hunting, is celebrated to appease Penkye Otu, the main deity of the Effutu State. Traditionally, sacrifices are made to protect the town from evil and to seek blessings for abundant harvests.
The festival features a hunting expedition by the two Asafo companies of the Effutu Traditional Area, Tuafo 1 and Dentsefo 2, who aim to capture a live bushbuck for the sacrificial ritual. Today, Tuafo 1 commenced the hunt at 4:30 hours, with Dentsefo 2 following at 5:00 hours. The durbar will continue until the Asafo companies return from their expedition.
