Asogli State bans funerals

• Posted on June 21, 2016
• by Nana Kwesi Coomson
• Comment

As part of preparations to commemorate this year’s Asogli Yam Festival, the Asogli State Council has announced a ban on funerals in the entire state.

The ban, which is imposed annually, is scheduled to take place from Wednesday, 17^th August to Sunday, 18^th September, 2016, a statement issued by the Asogli State council has indicated.

The statement, which was signed by the Council’s Secretary, also said the ban, a customary requirement, is expected to ensure that this year’s Asogli festival becomes as successful as previous ones.

The yam festival, which attracts thousands of people from all walks of life into the Asogli State, particularly Ho, capital of the Volta Region, also serves as a significant tourist attraction.

Some of the activities that usually feature in the celebration of the festival are pilgrimage to Nortsie in the Republic of Togo, home of the Ewes; hailing of the yam, Mr and Miss Asogli; lectures; Asogli State dinner; Games; among others.

The statement stressed, “The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV and his chiefs appeal to the public to co-operate with them by strictly observing the one-month ban on funerals to ensure a peaceful and successful celebration.”

In a another development, the public cemetery in Ho has been closed down due to inadequate space and also for health reason.

Meanwhile, residents have been advised to consider burying their dead relatives in nearby communities until the assembly and the traditional authorities allocate a new area for a cemetery.

From Fred Duodu, Ho