Asogli People Celebrate Te Za Festival as Lydia Forson Decries Cultural Erosion and Nollywood Sets Global Record

The Asogli State in the Volta Region has officially commenced its 2025 Te Za (Yam Festival) with a vibrant carnival procession through the streets of Ho, marking a significant moment of cultural celebration under the theme "United in Purpose, Investing in People and Infrastructure for Sustainable National Development." On September 25, 2025, the festivities began at the Ho Central Market and moved to the Ho Sports Stadium, where traditional music and dance performances took center stage. This annual event serves as a critical pillar for local tourism and community cohesion, featuring a diverse itinerary that includes mountain exploration, an auto show, and various development forums, all leading up to a grand durbar at the Ho Jubilee Park scheduled for October 3.

As the Asogli people celebrate their heritage, prominent Ghanaian actress Lydia Forson has sparked a national conversation regarding the potential erosion of that very identity. Forson recently voiced concerns over what she describes as Ghana’s "identity crisis," specifically criticizing the increasing tendency to replace traditional Ghanaian terms with foreign alternatives. She highlighted the adoption of "puff puff" instead of the local "bofrot" and "Ankara" in place of "ntoma" as symptoms of a broader cultural shift. Through her brand, Kinky Matters, Forson urged Ghanaians to value their unique heritage for the benefit of future generations, cautioning that while cultural evolution is natural, leaders and citizens alike must be intentional about preserving the linguistic and social markers that define the nation.

The broader West African entertainment landscape also saw a historic milestone this week as Nigeria’s Nollywood secured a Guinness World Record for the largest movie screening. Over 51,000 people gathered at the Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos for a special screening of the crime thriller "Black Market," directed by Fatimah Binta Gimsay. The event, organized by FilmOne and supported by the Lagos State Government, far exceeded its target of 50,000 attendees. This achievement, featuring a film centered on the struggles of market women amid economic challenges, underscores the massive growth and global influence of the region's film industry. Together, these developments—from the traditional rites in Ho to the record-breaking cinema in Lagos and the advocacy for cultural preservation—highlight a dynamic period of reflection and celebration for West African identity.