Asogli State announces 2026 Yam Festival Programme, imposes funeral ban

The Asogli State Council has announced the commencement of preparations for the 2026 Asogli Te Zã (Yam Festival), unveiling a packed programme of activities scheduled from August to October and imposing the customary ban on funerals across the state.

In a statement signed by the Secretary to the Council, Stephen Tetteh, and dated August 3, 2026, the Council said the funeral ban is intended to ensure a peaceful and successful celebration of the annual festival.

According to the Council, the ban on funerals throughout the Asogli State will take effect from Monday, August 17, and remain in force until Sunday, October 4, 2026.

The Agbogbomefia of Asogli, Togbe Afede XIV, together with the chiefs and elders, appealed to residents and the general public to fully cooperate by observing the directive, stressing that adherence to the tradition is vital to preserving the cultural significance of the festival and ensuring its smooth celebration.

The 2026 Asogli Te Zã festival will officially be launched on Wednesday, August 12, at the Asogli Palace. Activities will continue with a Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Day and the inauguration of Asogli Sectoral Committee members on August 22, followed by an excursion to Galenkui Mountain on August 29.

On September 5, the festival will feature an Auto Show, the Asogli Marathon and Adanukofe celebrations across all divisions of the Asogli State.

A series of community-focused activities have also been lined up throughout September, including a Women's Day celebration on September 10, a Health Walk and free health screening in Ho Township on September 12, an Anti-Corruption Day Forum on September 17, and an excursion to Adaklu Mountain on September 19. A cultural night dubbed Vovlowo fe Nkeke will be held at the Asogli Palace Forecourt on September 20.

Traditional and religious ceremonies will take centre stage later in the month. A Choral Music Night is scheduled for September 23, followed by the Nubabla Rites at Akoefe Avenui on September 24. On September 25, the festival will feature Muslim prayers and the Teyuyru Carnival to herald the new yam season.

The main festival celebrations, including the traditional Dzawuwu feast, the Borborbor Carnival and a Lawn Tennis competition, will take place on Saturday, September 26.

The final phase of the festival will begin in October with a Summit of Ewe Chiefs from Ghana, Togo and Benin, alongside the Volta Economic Forum on October 1. On October 2, activities will include the Sitting-in-State ceremony, the Best Farmer Awards and a State Dinner Dance.

The festival will climax with the Grand Durbar at Jubilee Park in Ho on Saturday, October 3, before concluding on Sunday, October 4, with thanksgiving services across all divisions of the Asogli State.

The Asogli State Council has encouraged residents, visitors and all stakeholders to actively participate in the celebrations while respecting the customs and traditions that underpin the annual festival.

   Comments0