At Keta, the land narrows to a thin strip with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and a wide lagoon on the other. Fishing canoes line the beach, birds wade in the shallow lagoon, and the ruins of an old European fort stand near the shore. This town in Ghana’s Volta Region is the heart of the Anlo Ewe area, rich in history and tradition. For couples with roots in the area, or those looking for a coastal setting away from Accra’s crowds, Keta can be a beautiful place to marry.
Keta, erosion and Anlo traditions
Keta lies in the south-east of the Volta Region, about three hours by road from Accra, near the border with Togo. The Keta Lagoon is one of Ghana’s largest coastal lagoons and an important habitat for birds. The sea and lagoon together create striking views. Keta has suffered severe coastal erosion, and a sea defence project was built to protect the town. Couples planning beach events should check conditions.
The Anlo Ewe have their own marriage customs, including the presentation of drinks and items to the bride’s family and the involvement of elders.
Hogbetsotso, the fort and venues
The Anlo hold the Hogbetsotso festival each November in Anloga, near Keta. It celebrates the Ewe migration from Notsé. Couples may want to plan around it. The ruins of Fort Prinzenstein, built by the Danes in the eighteenth century, stand near the shore and were linked to the slave trade. It is a place for reflection.
Beach resorts and hotels around Keta and nearby towns host events. Visit before booking. Rooms can be limited. Reserve early for guests and suggest options nearby. The road from Accra passes through Tema and the coastal towns. Arrange buses for guests if possible.
Food, music and birdlife
Fresh fish, crabs and Ewe dishes such as akple and fetri detsi can be served at the reception. Agbadza and borborbor dancing and drumming can add Ewe flavour to the celebration. The coast is hot and humid. Provide shade and water and plan for rain in the wet season. The lagoon attracts many birds, and guests who arrive early can enjoy walks along the shore before the celebrations begin.
At Keta, guests can stand between the sea and the lagoon on the same afternoon. Few wedding venues in Ghana offer two bodies of water as a backdrop.
