From Thursday 3 September to Monday 7 September 2026, Cape Coast buzzed with the annual Fetu Afahye, the Festival of the People of Cape Coast. The city, decked in orange, welcomed thousands of visitors who flocked to experience its vibrant culture and hospitality.
At the heart of the celebrations, the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, arrived in Victoria Park in a procession that combined traditional regalia, drumming, and dance. He was received with great respect by Osabarimba Dr. Kwesi Atta II, the Omanhen of Oguaa, and other dignitaries, including the King and Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Jira Yagbonwura Bii-Kuntuo Jewu Soale I.
The event drew attention to the economic impact of the festival: hotels ran at full capacity, restaurants and temporary stalls thrived, and artisans sold their crafts. The influx of visitors highlighted the commercial potential of Fetu Afahye and the broader Orange Friday movement, which encourages the city to dress in orange and showcase its cultural identity.
While the festival’s cultural significance remains paramount, organizers and stakeholders see an opportunity to strengthen branding and create commercial partnerships that preserve the event’s soul while boosting tourism revenue.
As Cape Coast celebrates its heritage, the presence of the Ga Mantse underscored the city’s role as a hub where history, identity, and commerce converge, offering a blueprint for future cultural tourism initiatives across Ghana.
