The 60th Fetu Afahyɛ in Cape Coast was a vibrant celebration of culture, history, and unity, held at Victoria Park that brought together distinguished guests, including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Asantehene Otumfuo Dr. Osei Tutu II.
In his keynote address, Vice President Dr. Bawumia expressed his gratitude to the traditional leaders, the planning committee, and the people of Cape Coast for their warm hospitality and the opportunity to participate in such a significant celebration.
He paid homage to Osabarima Kwesi Atta II, who marked his 25th anniversary as the Oguaamanhen, honouring his leadership and contributions to the community.
Dr. Bawumia also praised this year’s festival theme, ‘Celebrating the City of Firsts: Our People, Our Culture,’ emphasizing the importance of preserving Ghana’s cultural identity.
He said the theme encapsulates the essence of our identity as Ghanaians and reflects the rich cultural heritage of Cape Coast, a city that has played a foundational role in our nation’s history.
“For six decades, this festival has united us, providing a platform for cultural exchange, cultural expression and community bonding. Cape Coast is not merely a location, it is the cradle of our history. A city that has given birth to significant cultural, educational and political movements in Ghana. As the first capital of the Gold Coast, it has been the center for trade, education and cultural exchange”, he said.
Dr. Bawumia further indicated that the Fetu Afahye, which has its roots in the traditions of the Fante people, serves as a vibrant reminder of our collective past and an opportunity to celebrate our shared identity.
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He encouraged the youth to take pride in their heritage and engage actively in preserving the nation’s traditions.
“Let us reaffirm our commitment to preserving our rich cultural heritage for generations to come. Let us remember that our strength lies in our unity. The progress we have made as a community and as a nation is a result of our collective efforts”, he intimated.
The Vice President highlighted the government’s efforts to improve education in Ghana, specifically mentioning the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, which has significantly boosted enrollment and increased access to secondary education nationwide.
He said “with Cape Coast’s proud history as a citadel of knowledge, let me take this opportunity to speak about education, an area which is so dear to our government and the good people of Ghana. Education is an enabler which has the power to propel young people to unimaginable heights, as well as accelerate the development of a nation”.
Dr. Bawumia indicated that it is for these reasons that in the past seven and a half years, the NPP government has invested significantly in various aspects of our education, from basic to tertiary levels.
“Prior to 2017, access to secondary education remained only a dream to many young people”, Dr. Bawumia Said.
Her Excellency Harriet Thompson, the British High Commissioner to Ghana emphasized that Fetu Afahyɛ serves as a powerful reminder of our common heritage and the shared hope for a prosperous future.
She recognized the festival’s deep significance for the Cape Coast people, particularly the Fante people, highlighting how the celebration symbolizes their resilience and unity.
“I know the culture and the historic significance that traditional festivals embody. It’s clear to all how special the Fetu Afahyɛ is to the people of Cape Coast and to Ghana as a whole. It’s a festival that celebrates your rich cultural heritage”, she stated.
According to her, “It is a testament to the resilience and the unity of the Fante people and it’s a festival that brings people together as a community”.
She said she is fully aware of the role the United Kingdom played in the history of this festival indicating that “this is why today you’re celebrating the 60th anniversary of the return of the Fetu Afashe festival. And this festival brings people together in peace and understanding”.
Her Excellency also spoke about the historical relationship between Ghana and the United Kingdom, acknowledging the complex ties between the two nations.
She noted that their presence at the festival reflects the strength of modern relations, which have evolved into a partnership based on trust and cooperation.
Osabarima Kwesi Atta II, in his address, thanked the people of Cape Coast and the Oguaa Traditional Council for their dedication to organizing this year’s successful festival.
He also encouraged the youth to continue their communal efforts, reminding them of the importance of working together for a prosperous future.
