The Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, is scheduled to pay a historic visit to Anloga in the Volta Region on November 7, 2026, to participate in this year’s Hogbetsotso Za celebration. The revered traditional ruler is expected to serve as the Guest of Honour and deliver an address at the grand durbar. His presence is anticipated to strengthen the longstanding cultural bonds between the Gonja and Anlo people while fostering closer cooperation between the two traditional areas.
The invitation was formally presented to the Yagbonwura at the Jakpa Palace in Damongo last Friday by a delegation led by Togbui Amey Zegu II, representing the Awoamefia of Anlo Dukor, Togbi Sri III. This year’s festival is being celebrated under the theme, “Anlo, Our Heritage and Our Values: Striving to Build One Ghana for a Better Tomorrow.”
Hogbetsotso Za commemorates the historic migration of the Anlo-Ewe people from Notsie, in present-day Togo, to their current homeland after escaping the oppressive rule of King Agorkorli I. Speaking during the visit, Togbui Zegu II explained that the annual celebration provides an important platform for the Anlo people to reflect on the values that have preserved their identity and heritage over generations. These include unity, resilience, courage, discipline, communal responsibility and respect for tradition.
He added that the festival would feature a range of activities aimed at attracting tourists, stimulating local businesses and encouraging greater community participation. Among the major highlights will be the sitting-in-state ceremony of the Awoamefia and his paramount chiefs, followed by a grand durbar showcasing traditional performances and cultural displays by the various states of Anlo Dukor. The event is also expected to attract prominent national dignitaries.
Togbui Zegu II assured the Yagbonwura and his entourage of appropriate traditional protocols and warm hospitality throughout their visit to Anloga. He further wished the Overlord continued success in advancing peace, prosperity and development among the Gonja people and throughout Ghana.
In response, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I accepted the invitation, describing the festival as a valuable opportunity for the two kingdoms to renew their historic relationship and strengthen collaboration. He noted that the people of Gonjaland and Anlo shared historical connections spanning several centuries, expressing confidence that his visit would deepen mutual understanding, reinforce cultural ties and promote stronger relations between the two traditional areas.
