Hundreds join chiefs to observe Fetu Bakatue in Cape Coast
Hundreds of patrons trooped to the banks of the Fosu Lagoon in Cape Coast last Tuesday to join the traditional authorities of Oguaa for this year’s Bakatue, the performance of rituals to officially lift a ban on fishing in the lagoon.
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The performance of the rituals now permits fishermen to resume their activities in the lagoon, after fishing in the lagoon was suspended from Tuesday, August 6, 2024, as part of the of preparations for the celebration of Oguaa Fetu Afahye.
In an atmosphere laced with cultural performances and traditional reverence, hundreds of residents and visitors gathered along the banks of the lagoon to witness the ceremony.
The event was climaxed with Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, Paramount Chief of Oguaa, casting a fishing net three times into the lagoon to officially declare the ban lifted.
Libation was poured and prayers were offered to the gods to seek their blessings for a prosperous and successful year ahead for Oguaaman.
Regatta
The lifting of the ban also witnessed the usual vibrant and colourful regatta, a traditional boat race, involving “Asafo” companies—militia groups integral to the culture and history of the area.
Cape Coast is home to some 77 deities, with each playing a crucial role in the protection and prosperity of the town's indigenes, as narrated by elders and traditional leaders.
The revered deities are regarded as guardians of the land, who the people believe influence their lives, ensure their well-being and continuity of life of the Oguaa people.
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Celebration of Afahye
The city of Cape Coast is expected to burst with people and activities as the city celebrates arguably its biggest Fetu festival since its inception some 60 years ago.
It coincides with the 25th anniversary celebration of Osabarimba as Paramount Chief.
The event would be graced by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Last Monday, a homecoming carnival was held as part of the Fetu Afahye activities.
A trade and investment fair was also opened at the Adisadel School Park on Monday and would run till Sunday, September 8, 2024. And Wednesday, September 4, is declared youth and kids day.
There would be a health screening and visit to Sights and Sounds in Cape Coast (Tourism Day); Royal dinner and launch of Osabarimba
Fund today, while Orange Friday and the Oman purification rites would be held tomorrow. The festival will be climaxed on Saturday, September 7, 2024, while the grand durbar and a thanksgiving service and football competition will be on Sunday, September 8, 2024.
Meanwhile, all through this week, an expo dubbed “Afahye in the Park”, near Lush on the Coast at Bakado is being organised.