Odwira

Odwira and Katamanso

On 7 August 1826, near Dodowa, a coalition that included Akuapem and Akyem forces defeated the Asante army at the battle of Katamanso. Akuapem tradition credits the 19th Okuapehene, Nana Addo Dankwa I, with founding the Odwira festival that year.¹²

Historians add some context: the Akuapem state was already established in the 18th century, and the victory helped consolidate it; Asante had its own Odwira tradition before Akuapem’s.¹ In 2026 Akuapem marked 200 years of its Odwira from 21 September.¹

What happens

The Odwira week includes preparation, a period of mourning, path clearing, new-yam rites, the purification of the stools, remembrance of the ancestors, public processions and ceremonial gatherings.¹ Thanksgiving for the harvest is shown above all in “giving food to the ancestors”.³

Good to know if you go

• Where: Akropong is on the Akuapem ridge, about an hour north of Accra past Aburi.
• Combine it: Aburi Botanical Gardens are on the way. See the Eastern region page.
• Check the dates: the traditional council sets the days each year, often only weeks ahead. 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.