Cape Coast Comes Alive with Orange Friday: Celebrating 60 Years of Fetu Afahye and 25 Years of Paramount Chieftaincy

On Friday, September 6, 2024, the streets of Cape Coast were transformed into a vibrant sea of orange as the city celebrated Orange Friday, one of the most colorful and lively events that forms part of the annual Fetu Afahye festival. This year, the festival holds special significance, as it commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Fetu Afahye, a landmark occasion that coincides with another important milestone: the 25th anniversary of the installation of the Paramount Chief of the Oguaa Traditional Area. Both anniversaries have added an extra layer of excitement and pride to the already festive atmosphere.

Cape Coast, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, was pulsating with life as residents and visitors alike poured into the streets, all dressed in bright orange attire to mark the occasion. The cheerful crowd, made up of people from various walks of life, represented a unity of purpose as they came together to celebrate their shared traditions and honor their history. Orange Friday, with its lively processions, music, dancing, and displays of local customs, set the stage for the larger Fetu Afahye festival, which has long been a central part of the cultural identity of the Oguaa people.

The Fetu Afahye is a deeply rooted cultural celebration in Cape Coast, observed by the Oguaa people, and it continues to attract attention both locally and internationally. Visitors from across Ghana and beyond make the journey to partake in the festivities, immersing themselves in the cultural richness and traditions of the area. This year’s edition, however, carries even greater significance, not only because of the anniversaries it celebrates but also because of the sense of renewal and continuity it represents for the people of Cape Coast.

With the streets buzzing with excitement and the air filled with the sounds of traditional drums and vibrant music, the entire city seemed to be swept up in a collective joy, united by a shared cultural heritage that has stood the test of time. Orange Friday and the broader Fetu Afahye festival continue to play a vital role in preserving the cultural identity of the Oguaa people, showcasing their customs, and passing down traditions from one generation to the next.