Why Hyirebo
The ancestors left an existing Mmowere state to found a new one, and named the land Mmowere Amanforo, “the new state of Mmowere”. They set up Hyirebo to proclaim it, and it has been kept ever since, for peace, unity and the progress of the state.1
The week
- Sunday
Homecoming
People who live away come home.1
- Monday
Work together
Meetings and communal labour in every town.1
- Tuesday
Great taboo day
No heavy farm work; only family and clan meetings.1
- Wednesday
Wailing
Morning rites in every clan and wailing for fallen heroes and loved ones.1
- Thursday
Feasting
Families feast, and animals are slaughtered.1
- Friday
White clay and the durbar
At dawn families bathe in the river, women and children first, then smear white clay on their bodies. Clan and town processions come to the durbar ground with drums and festival songs, for speeches, an appeal for development funds and dancing until evening.1
- Sunday
Thanksgiving
An interdenominational thanksgiving service.1
Good to know if you go
- Where: Bowiri is in the Biakoye District. See the Oti page for places nearby.
- Also in Bowiri: Fussikur, the migration festival, between February and March.
- Check the dates: the traditional council sets them each year. Local radio and the national press carry the announcement.
- Respect the rites: some rituals are sacred and not for cameras. Ask before photographing chiefs, priests or anyone taking part, and follow what the ushers ask.
Questions people ask
What is the Hyirebo festival?
The festival of peace of Bowiri Amanforo in the Oti Region, which closes the traditional year.
When is Hyirebo?
In the first week of April.
Sources
- “Oti Region: the tradition and cultural heritage of Oti Region”, National Commission on Culture.
Last checked 16 October 2026. Spotted something wrong or know this year’s dates? Tell us.