The grand durbar that climaxes the celebration of Fetu Afahye of the people of Cape Coast (Oguaa) with its accompanying programs and activities for this year has been called off.
Celebrated in September each year, the Fetu Afahye has over the years become one of the most patronized festivals in the country.
This decision was arrived at after a stakeholders’ meeting on Tuesday with members of the traditional council, the metro assembly and the Association of Concerned Cape Coast Citizens and Residents, ACCCCAR.
Speaking in an interview with ATL FM News on behalf of the Oguaa traditional council, the Chief of Apewosika-Kokoado, Nana Kweku Enu III, noted that the call off of the Oguaa Fetu Afahye has become necessary to avoid the spread of coronavirus.
“Every year we celebrate Oguaa Fetu Afahye but because of the COVID 19 and the President’s safety measures, Nananom of Oguaa cannot go out to celebrate Oguaa Fetu Afahye” he said.
According to him, should the ban on social gathering be lifted by the end of May, it will still be impossible to celebrate the Festival because sponsorship for activities to mark the celebration have not been secured due. He blamed this on the difficulties companies are confronted with due to adverse economic challenges being experienced due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Speaking on the ban on fishing in the Fosu Lagoon which usually accompanies the celebration, Nana Kweku Enu III indicated the ban will begin from the 31st of May to allow the lagoon undergo the much-needed cleaning to allow a bumper harvest the ensuing year.
The honourable Municipal Chief Executive of Cape Coast, Mr. Ernest Arthur on his part reiterated the assembly’s commitment to clearing the Fosu Lagoon.
“We will all do the cleaning of the Lagoon ourselves; the fishermen who fish in it will also help. The assembly will also try to engage the services of prisoners to support. It’s going to be a voluntary work however the assembly will try to support persons who will involve themselves in these activities” he explained.
He added the assembly would ensure fishermen adhere to strict fishing practices to ensure sanity in the Lagoon after the three months ban begins on May 31st, 2020.
SOURCE: ATL FM NEWS
