The traditional authorities of Anlo State have announced the commencement of the sacred Aƒekplɔkplɔ spiritual cleansing ritual, a centuries-old tradition that serves as a cornerstone of the region’s cultural and spiritual calendar. The ritual, which translates to “spiritual cleansing” in the Ewe language, will take place from Friday, September 5, through Saturday morning, September 6, 2025, across all communities within the Anlo State.
Cultural Significance and Spiritual Renewal
The Aƒekplɔkplɔ ritual represents far more than a ceremonial observance—it embodies the Anlo people’s deep commitment to spiritual purification and community harmony. According to the official announcement from the Anlo Dukor Council, this sacred rite serves as an essential prelude to the upcoming period of reverence and reflection that characterises the lead-up to the Hogbetsotso festival season.
“The Aƒekplɔkplɔ ritual is a vital part of our cultural calendar. It symbolises spiritual renewal and purification of our homes and communities, creating the right atmosphere for discipline, harmony, and reverence for tradition,” stated Togbi Agbesi Awusu II, the Awadada of Anlo and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, in the official press release issued on September 3, 2025.
This ancient practice involves comprehensive spiritual cleansing of homes, shrines, and community spaces, removing negative energies and preparing the spiritual environment for the sacred period ahead. The ritual encompasses traditional prayers, libations, and purification ceremonies conducted by priests, elders, and family heads throughout the Anlo communities.
Three-Week Period of Sacred Silence
Following the completion of the Aƒekplɔkplɔ ritual, all Anlo towns and communities will observe a solemn three-week period of restricted activities. From Sunday, September 7, through Saturday, September 26, 2025, a comprehensive ban on drumming and noise-making will be enforced across the entire Anlo State.
This period of enforced quiet serves multiple cultural and spiritual purposes. It allows for deep reflection, meditation, and spiritual preparation as communities ready themselves for the approaching Hogbetsotso season—one of the most significant festivals in the Anlo calendar. The silence also demonstrates collective respect for ancestral traditions and creates an atmosphere conducive to spiritual communion with ancestors and deities.
The ban encompasses all forms of traditional drumming, loud music, and unnecessary noise-making activities that might disturb the sacred atmosphere. Community members are expected to conduct themselves with heightened awareness of the spiritual significance of this period, maintaining decorum and reverence in their daily activities.
Community-Wide Participation Expected
The traditional authorities have issued a comprehensive call for participation, emphasising that the success of these observances depends on the collective commitment of all community members. Chiefs, elders, opinion leaders, youth organisations, and ordinary citizens are all expected to play their part in ensuring the sanctity of this important cultural period.
“We call on all chiefs, elders, opinion leaders, youth, and citizens of Anlo to strictly observe this directive and lend their full cooperation to safeguard the sanctity of this important period,” the announcement emphasised, highlighting the inclusive nature of the observance.
Local chiefs and traditional councils across the various Anlo communities are expected to enforce compliance with the directives, ensuring that both residents and visitors understand and respect the cultural protocols during this sacred time.
Preserving Cultural Heritage for Future Generations
The announcement underscores the broader importance of maintaining cultural continuity in an increasingly modern world. Traditional authorities view these observances as crucial mechanisms for transmitting cultural values and practices to younger generations while maintaining the spiritual foundations that have sustained Anlo communities for centuries.
“Together, let us preserve and uphold the dignity of Anlo culture for present and future generations,” Togbi Agbesi Awusu II emphasised, reflecting the community’s commitment to cultural preservation amid contemporary challenges.
The Aƒekplɔkplɔ ritual and subsequent period of reverence represent the Anlo people’s dedication to maintaining their ancestral connections while adapting traditional practices to contemporary community life. These observances serve as powerful reminders of the community’s shared identity and collective responsibility to honour their cultural heritage.
Historical Context and Modern Relevance
The Anlo State, located in the Volta Region of Ghana, has long been recognised for its rich cultural traditions and strong adherence to customary practices. The Ewe-speaking communities that comprise the Anlo State have maintained their traditional governance structures and cultural observances despite centuries of external influences and modernisation.
The Hogbetsotso festival, for which these current observances serve as preparation, celebrates the historic migration of the Ewe people from Notsie in present-day Togo to their current homeland. This annual festival typically features elaborate traditional displays, cultural performances, and community gatherings that reinforce social bonds and cultural identity.
By maintaining practices such as the Aƒekplɔkplɔ ritual, the Anlo people demonstrate their commitment to preserving the spiritual and cultural foundations that continue to guide their community life. These traditions serve not only as links to the past but also as frameworks for community cohesion and identity in the present day.
The upcoming observances reflect the ongoing vitality of traditional African spiritual and cultural practices, showcasing how ancient wisdom continues to provide guidance and meaning in contemporary African societies.