Cape Coast Celebrates 60 Years of Tradition and Resilience

 By Shine Esi Kwawukumey 




The 2024 Fetu Afahye festival, held over the weekend in Cape Coast, was a grand celebration of tradition, unity, and resilience, marking its 60th anniversary and the 25th year of Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II as the Omanhen of the Oguaa Traditional Area. 


The festival, rooted in the historical elimination of a devastating plague with the help of the gods, derives its name from "Efin Tu," meaning "doing away with dirt," and also commemorates a bountiful harvest and gratitude to the 77 gods of the area. 




Initially banned by colonial authorities and labeled "Black Christmas," the festival was revived in 1948 and is now a vital part of the community's cultural calendar, according to Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, who stated, “Our history and heritage are the pillars of our community.”




Speaking at the event, British High Commissioner to Ghana, H.E. Harriet Thompson, emphasized the festival’s significance, saying, “Fetu Afahyɛ celebrates the resilience and unity of the people of Fante,” while also highlighting the evolving relationship between Ghana and the UK, built on trust and cooperation. 


She added, “Democracy is a vital principle, ensuring that people have a say in their governance,” stressing the importance of unity during divisive election periods. 




The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, praised Osabarimba Kwesi Atta for his humility, attributing it to his long and successful reign as Omanhen, and encouraged him to maintain this virtuous path. 


“As you mark the 60th edition of your festival and your 25th anniversary as Omanhen, I extend my best wishes for peace, development, and progress to you and your people,” he remarked. 


He donated GH¢500,000 to an educational fund, emphasizing, “The development of a community depends on its citizens," and also emphasized the importance of unity and peace for the growth of the community, reminding everyone that “we are one people.” 




Meanwhile Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia highlighted the significance of the Fetu Afahye festival in fostering unity and serving as a platform for cultural exchange and community building over the past 60 years and called Cape Coast "the cradle of our history, "As we celebrate this milestone, we must renew our commitment to preserving our rich cultural heritage for future generations,” he urged. 


He also emphasized the importance of unity and peace, noting that Ghana’s progress has been achieved through collective effort, adding, “Let us continue to work together to build a prosperous and peaceful Ghana.”




The festival serves as a symbol of the shared heritage and collective hope for a prosperous future, while also preserving cultural traditions and strengthening community bonds.

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