The Oguaa Fetu Afahye, an annual festival celebrated by the people of Cape Coast, has commenced, marking its 60th anniversary.

Celebrated in the first week of September, this event honours the forebears of the Oguaa people and unites families from near and far.

This year’s festivities began with a regatta, featuring a fierce canoe race among the Bentsir, Nkum, and Anaafo Asafo companies.

Nkum, adorned in yellow, claimed victory for the fifth consecutive time. The festival also showcased captivating "ampatampa" dancers, including Europeans who participated for the first time.

The Oguaa Traditional Council initiated the week-long celebrations by performing sacred rituals at the Fosu Lagoon, lifting the one-month ban on fishing.

The event also included a grand procession of Chiefs, Queen Mothers, and traditional leaders through the streets of Cape Coast, culminating in the casting of the Omanhen's net to predict the year's harvest.

This year's Fetu Afahye festivities are expected to be exceptionally grand, with the anticipated presence of the revered Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II coupled with the organisational skills of the newly appointed members of the Fetu Afahye Planning Committee.

The Asantehene's historic debut in Oguaa is expected to bring a distinctive ambience, showcasing his role as a custodian of tradition and a symbol of unity and resilience.

Myjoyonline's photojournalist, Sammy Moore was at the festival grounds and captured these photos.