People pack the streets of Winneba today as the Effutu celebrate their Aboakyer festival. Locals and visitors fill the coastal city for the yearly tradition. The Presbyterian School Park hosts the main event, where many are already waiting. Tribal leaders arrive in bright clothes through a grand walk. Security teams from police and other forces stand ready throughout the area.
Many young people walk around with unusual appearances as part of the festivities. Merchants and food sellers do good business during the celebration. The festival name means animal hunting and honors Penkye Otu, the main Effutu deity. People believe these offerings protect the town from harm and bring good harvests. The two groups, Tuafo 1 and Dentsefo 2, compete to catch a live animal for the ceremony.
Tuafo 1 left town at 4:30 this morning, with Dentsefo 2 following thirty minutes later. The town gathering continues until both hunting groups return from the forest. This ancient custom brings everyone together each year. Local leaders dressed in traditional outfits lead the ceremonies. The theme chosen for this year focuses on keeping ancestral traditions alive.
Many young people walk around with unusual appearances as part of the festivities. Merchants and food sellers do good business during the celebration. The festival name means animal hunting and honors Penkye Otu, the main Effutu deity. People believe these offerings protect the town from harm and bring good harvests. The two groups, Tuafo 1 and Dentsefo 2, compete to catch a live animal for the ceremony.
Tuafo 1 left town at 4:30 this morning, with Dentsefo 2 following thirty minutes later. The town gathering continues until both hunting groups return from the forest. This ancient custom brings everyone together each year. Local leaders dressed in traditional outfits lead the ceremonies. The theme chosen for this year focuses on keeping ancestral traditions alive.
