The vibrant town of Sokpoe came alive on Saturday, April 19th, 2025, as the 39th edition of the Tortsogbe-Za festival unfolded in a dazzling celebration of culture, community, and heritage. Among the distinguished guests was Hon. Maxwell Kwame Lukutor, the Member of Parliament for South Tongu, whose presence and powerful message left an indelible mark on the event.
Joined by notable figures such as the District Chief Executive, Hon. Victoria Dzeklo, and the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Hon. Lukutor championed the twin pillars of youth mentorship and tourism development. In his stirring address, he urged the youth to embrace guidance from elders and community leaders, emphasizing that mentorship is the cornerstone of progress and empowerment.
But Hon. Lukutor’s vision extended beyond mentorship. He unveiled plans to elevate Tortsogbe-Za into a premier tourism attraction, following fruitful discussions with the Tourism Minister. The festival, already a beacon of cultural pride, holds untapped potential to draw visitors from across Ghana and beyond.
Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie echoed this sentiment, lauding the festival’s remarkable growth over the years. She boldly declared her intention to position Tortsogbe-Za as Ghana’s second-best festival, unveiling plans to promote the iconic river crossing as a unique tourism product. She also called on the Volta River Authority to dredge the silted rivers caused by dam spillage, ensuring the festival’s centerpiece remains a spectacle to behold.
In a heartwarming display of unity and support, Hon. Lukutor, Hon. Gomashie, Hon. James Gunu (Regional Minister), and Hon. Victoria Dzeklo (South Tongu MCE) collectively donated GHS 10,000 to the festival. This generous contribution underscored their commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Sokpoe.
Tortsogbe-Za is more than a festival; it is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and unity of the South Tongu community. It serves as a platform to celebrate traditions, foster connections, and showcase the vibrant spirit of the people to a wider audience.
As the 39th edition draws to a close, the echoes of drumming, dancing, and storytelling remind us that culture is not just a relic of the past—it is the heartbeat of the present and the promise of the future. With leaders like Hon. Maxwell Kwame Lukutor at the helm, the future of Tortsogbe-Za and the South Tongu community shines brighter than ever.
Source: Sankofaonline
