The Volta regional capital, Ho, is once again full of life as the people of Asogli State, led by their Paramount Chief, Togbe Afede XIV, begin this year’s Te Za, the popular Yam Festival.

Known for its rich culture and colourful activities, the festival has become a major event that attracts people from across Ghana and beyond.

This year, visitors and locals alike can look forward to an exciting list of events. There will be mountain hikes at Galenkui and Adaklu, as well as health walks and free health checks.

Music lovers can enjoy a night of choral performances, lively youth jams, and the famous borborbor dance concert.

One of the key highlights is a special trip to Notse in Togo, the historic hometown of the Ewe people, where their ancestors lived before moving to their current home.

In addition to the fun, the festival will also focus on serious issues.

There will be a day to celebrate and support women, a session on fighting corruption, and the Asogli Marathon for sports fans.

Togbe Afede will meet with Ewe chiefs from Ghana, Togo, and Benin to strengthen ties between the communities.

He will also receive greetings and support from public and private organisations.

One of the most important moments of the festival is the Teyuyru, the official hailing of the fresh yam harvest of the year.

It draws thousands of people and is a time to give thanks for food and blessings. Farmers will be honoured with awards, and a dinner and dance will be held in their honour.

The festival will conclude with Muslim prayers and Christian thanksgiving, uniting everyone in peace.

The festival was officially launched on July 14th, followed by a Youth Empowerment and Business Pitch event, where young people shared their business ideas and received funding to start or grow their projects.

This year’s theme is “Together in Honesty and Purpose, We Build a Just, Peaceful and Prosperous Nation”.

Beyond the dancing and celebration, the festival remains a time for bringing people together, settling family issues, and starting fresh in unity.