By Prince Acquah, GNA
Elmina, July 08, GNA – A rich blend of culture, tradition, customs, colour, music and dance transformed the banks of the Benya Lagoon into a spectacular scene as the chiefs and people of Edina performed sacred rituals to lift the annual ban on fishing in the lagoon as well as noisemaking, to mark this year’s Bakatue Festival.
Hundreds of residents, visitors and tourists thronged the lagoon on Tuesday to witness the age-old rituals, which signal the official opening of the fishing season.
Amid loud cheers and applause during an exciting regatta interspersed with breathtaking speedboat and canoe stunts, vibrant music and dance performances by the Ntekuafo, created a festive atmosphere for the occasion.
Nana Kodwo Conduah VI, the Edinamanhen, together with traditional priests, performed customary rites to lift the ban on fishing in the Benya Lagoon, and on music and noisemaking.
Following the rituals, the Omanhen’s ceremonial fishing net was cast into the lagoon three times, with each cast yielding fish, symbolising the prospect of a bountiful fishing season.
The Ghana News Agency was there to capture some memorable moments from the colourful event.
GNA
Edited by Alice Tettey/Benjamin Mensah
Reporter: Prince Acquah
E-mail: [email protected]