The Volta Regional Member of the Council of State, Dr Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple, has called for the transformation of the annual Hogbetsotso Festival into a platform for tangible social and economic development in Anlo and the wider Volta Region.
Reflecting on this year’s celebration, Dr Kwamigah-Atokple described the 2025 edition as an “eye-opener,” particularly for the diverse range of activities that enriched the event — including the Volta Economic Forum, which brought together leaders, investors, and development stakeholders.
He said that while Hogbetsotso remains a historic and deeply cultural celebration, it was time to anchor it in concrete initiatives that advance the welfare and progress of the people.
“Even though it is a historic festival we, the people of Anlo, celebrate every year, I believe this is the time to transform it into real and tangible development.
“It should be centred on economic, cultural, social, and human development, reflecting the true essence of progress and happiness of our people,” he said.
Dr Kwamigah-Atokple also used the opportunity to call for unity among the people of Anlo, urging them to rise above divisions and work together toward a shared vision for the future.
“Let us put aside the petty rivalries among ourselves and come together to build the land our forebears who were warriors envisioned,” he appealed.
The Hogbetsotso Festival, one of Ghana’s oldest and most significant traditional events, celebrates the migration and resilience of the Anlo-Ewe people.
This year’s edition, marked by cultural displays and developmental dialogues, ended with renewed calls for collaboration and inclusive growth.
Also in attendance at the event were the Chief of Staff of Ghana, Julius Debrah; the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Asiedu Nketiah; the Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza; the Deputy Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr Justice Srem Sai; the Acting Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Dr James Klutse Avedzi; among others.