The Volta regional capital, Ho, is once again buzzing with activity as the people of Asogli State, led by their Paramount Chief, Togbe Afede XIV, kick off this year’s Te Za, popularly known as the Yam Festival.
Renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere, the festival has become a major attraction for thousands of locals and visitors from across Ghana and beyond. The 2024 edition drew massive crowds to the yam hailing ceremony, setting the tone for a packed calendar of events.
This year’s celebrations feature mountain hikes at Galenkui and Adaklu, health walks, free medical screenings, and a blend of music and dance performances. Music lovers can look forward to choral nights, youth jams, and the much-loved borborbor concert.
A key highlight of the festival is a symbolic trip to Notse in Togo—the ancestral home of the Ewe people—reconnecting celebrants with their roots.
The festivities are not only about fun but also focus on development and unity. Special events will honour women, promote anti-corruption efforts, and include the Asogli Marathon for sports enthusiasts.
Togbe Afede XIV will host a summit of Ewe chiefs from Ghana, Togo, and Benin to foster stronger cross-border ties. He is also expected to receive goodwill messages from state and private institutions.
One of the most spiritually significant moments is the Teyuyru, the official hailing of the fresh yam harvest. This traditional rite is a time of thanksgiving and recognition for farmers, who will be celebrated with awards, followed by a dinner and dance in their honour.
The festival was officially launched on July 14, with a Youth Empowerment and Business Pitch event where young entrepreneurs presented their ideas and received seed funding.
Togbe Afede presented a cash prize to the overall winner of the 2025 Asogli State Youth Empowerment initiative at a ceremony on July 19.
This year’s theme, “Together in Honesty and Purpose, We Build a Just, Peaceful and Prosperous Nation,” reflects the festival’s deeper purpose—unity, reconciliation, and shared progress.
The celebration will close with both Muslim and Christian thanksgiving services, symbolizing peace and togetherness across faiths and communities.
