The Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, will make a historic visit to Anloga in the Volta Region on November 7, 2026, to attend this year’s Hogbetsotso Za.
He is expected to deliver a speech at the grand durbar as the Guest of Honour.
His participation is expected to strengthen cultural ties between the Gonja and Anlo people and deepen cooperation between the two traditional areas.
A delegation led by Togbui Amey Zegu II, on behalf of the Awoamefia of Anlo Dukor, Togbi Sri III, extended the invitation to the Yagbonwura at the Jakpa Palace in Damongo last Friday.
This year’s celebration is on the theme, “Anlo, Our Heritage and Our Values: Striving to Build One Ghana for a Better Tomorrow.”
The Hogbetsotso Za commemorates the Anlo-Ewe people’s migration from Notsie, in present-day Togo, to their current homeland after escaping the rule of King Agorkorli I.
Cultural heritage
In his remarks, Togbui Zegu II said the festival offered an opportunity for the Anlo people to reflect on the values that had sustained their identity across generations, including unity, resilience, courage, discipline, communal responsibility and respect for tradition.
He said the celebration would feature activities designed to attract tourists, support local businesses and deepen community participation.
A major highlight will be the sitting-in-state of the Awoamefia and his paramount chiefs, followed by a grand durbar featuring traditional displays by the various states of Anlo Dukor and the participation of national dignitaries.
Togbui Zegu II assured the Yagbonwura and his entourage of appropriate protocol and hospitality arrangements during the visit. He also wished the Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom continued success in promoting peace, prosperity and development among the Gonja people and across Ghana.
Acceptance
For his part, the Yagbonwura accepted the invitation and said the festival was a great opportunity for the two kingdoms to renew their bonds and deepen collaboration.
He said the people of Gonjaland and Anlo shared historical ties dating back centuries, adding that the visit would help strengthen their relationship and promote greater cultural understanding.