By Evans Worlanyo Ameamu, GNA
Tegbi (V/R) Oct. 1, GNA – Togbi Zewu IV, Dufia of Anloga, in the Volta Region, has said that the strategy the Anlo ancestors used to break through the mud walls of Notsie holds lessons for Ghana as the country confronts steep economic challenges.Â
He recalled that the strategy the ancestors used to escape Notsie was by walking backwards to confuse their pursuers.
Ghana, the Dufia said, now stood before steep economic walls which needed urgent walk and redress for the development of the communities.
Togbi Zewu, who delivered a speech on behalf of Togbi Agbesi Awusu II, the Awadada of Anlo Dukor, at the media launch of the 2026 Hogbetsotso Za, in Tegbi on Thursday, said this year’s festival would serve as a national platform to inspire a mindset shift.
“The festival will highlight how cultural discipline, local economic empowerment and traditional accountability can contribute to the urgent national agenda of resetting the country’s economy,” he said.
He explained that Hogbetsotso was not merely an occasion for drumming and dancing but a living testament to human resilience, unity and liberty and the festival marks the exodus of the Anlo ancestors from the tyrannical rule of Togbi Agorkoli in Notsie to their present homeland.
Togbi Zewu mentioned that this year’s celebration is on the theme “Anlo, Our Heritage and Our Values: Striving to Build One Ghana for a Better Tomorrow.”
The theme, he said, “deliberately reflects the enduring relevance of Anlo history, culture and traditional values to contemporary Ghana.
“The theme challenges the Anlo community, particularly its youth and leadership, to draw strength from the past, uphold cherished values in the present and work collectively towards a peaceful, united and prosperous Ghana for generations yet unborn.”
He described the media as the bridge between Anlo’s traditions and the global village, whose pens, microphones, cameras and digital platforms could tell the authentic story of the Anlo people.
Togbi Zewu further appealed to journalists to look beyond the colours of the kente and the rhythms of the Agbadza Dance to highlight the economic opportunities within Anlo Dukor, but rather tell the stories of the fishermen, shallot farmers and hospitality practitioners, as well as coastal vulnerabilities to climate change of the area, so that their reportage would drive domestic tourism and investment into the region.
He said an undertaking of the scale would be impossible without strategic partnerships, and thanked the corporate bodies, individuals and philanthropists who had stepped forward to anchor the celebration.
He commended telecommunication firms MTN and Telecel for keeping communities connected and driving digital engagement, and beverage companies Accra Brewery Limited and Guinness Ghana for supporting the cultural showcases.
He also thanked Ghana Exim Bank for aligning with the festival’s economic agenda and pushing for industrial development along the Volta economic corridor, as well as all other local and international sponsors.
Togbi Zewu urged all Anlo citizens, residents, friends and well-wishers to participate peacefully and actively in the upcoming celebration, to strengthen bonds, support communities and inspire the youth which he declared the Hogbetsotso Za 2026 duly launched, praying that it would be successful, peaceful and impactful.
The 2026 HogbetsotsoZa media launch was attended by Chiefs and Queen Mothers of the 36 States of Anlo land, Journalists, Assembly Members, among others.
The Ghana News Agency (GNA) gathered that a series of activities have been line-up for this year’s celebration with grand durbar slated on November 7, 2026, with many anticipating another successful and joyous festival.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Benjamin Mensah