The Official Oguaa Fetu Afahye logo
The Oguaa Traditional Council has officially announced the date for the 2025 edition of the Fetu Afahyɛ festival, a much-anticipated cultural celebration in Cape Coast. This festival brings together indigenes, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts, which is a significant event on the Ghanaian cultural calendar. Known for its rich display of tradition, drumming, dancing, and communal activities, Fetu Afahyɛ serves as a time for the people of Oguaa to give thanks, reflect on their heritage, and foster unity among communities.
The Fetu Afahye is a festival observed by the chiefs and residents of Cape Coast in Ghana’s Central Region. This remarkable display of culture is held every year on the first Saturday of September. This annual celebration is significant to the Oguaa people of Cape Coast. Historically, the festival originated after a devastating outbreak of disease claimed many lives in the community. The people turned to their gods for intervention, seeking relief from the epidemic. As a result, the festival is now dedicated to maintaining the town’s cleanliness and preventing future outbreaks.
Last year, the historic town of Cape Coast came alive as the Oguaa Traditional Council and the people of Oguaa celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Fetu Afahyɛ festival. The milestone event was a grand display of Akan traditions, bringing together locals, dignitaries, and visitors to witness the vibrant cultural heritage of the Fante people. The festival, which dates back to an epidemic that once plagued the community, has since evolved into an annual celebration of thanksgiving, purification, and unity.
One of the highlights of the 2024 Fetu Afahyɛ was the presence of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who joined the Oguaamanhen, Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, in marking the occasion. Their historic meeting symbolized the long connection between the Fante and Asante people, both of whom trace their origins to Techiman. The event also showcased a variety of traditional performances, including the spectacular Asafo dance by the seven Asafo Companies of Oguaa, drumming, singing, and the performance of Akan ivory horning (Mbɛnsuon).
Looking ahead to Fetu Afahyɛ 2025, anticipation is high as the Oguaa Traditional Council prepares for another spectacular celebration. This year’s festival is expected to build on the success of the 60th anniversary, with an even grander display of Fante customs and traditions. Attendees can expect to witness the vibrant Bakatue ceremony at the Fosu Lagoon, symbolic of blessings for a prosperous fishing season. The Asafo Companies will once again take center stage, showcasing their military-style performances, while drumming, dancing, and cultural pageantry will fill the streets of Cape Coast.
The 2025 Oguaa Fetu Afahyɛ was officially launched on February 13, 2025 at the Ato Austin Memorial Gardens in Cape Coast. The event brought together distinguished personalities, including Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, the Omanhen of Oguaa, and Nana Amba Eyiaba I, the Queenmother of the Oguaa Traditional Council. Also in attendance was Mrs. Charlotte Osei (Esq), a proud daughter of Oguaa, who served as the chairperson, while the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Development Company Limited, Prof. Kobby Mensah, delivered the keynote address as the guest speaker.
Following the launch, the Oguaa Traditional Council announced that the 2025 Oguaa Fetu Afahyɛ will be celebrated from August 31st to September 6th, 2025. This year’s festival will be held under the theme “Innovate to Elevate: Harnessing the Creative Economy for Sustainable Growth.”
With preparations underway, the 2025 Fetu Afahyɛ promises to be a remarkable cultural experience, drawing thousands of people to celebrate the enduring legacy of the Oguaa people. As always, the festival will serve as a time of reflection, thanksgiving, and reaffirmation of the unity and identity of the Fante people.
Editor: Ama Gyesiwaa Quansah
