Togo / Celebrating the 52nd edition of the traditional festival “Ayiza” at the Zio: A hymn to peace and development
This weekend, the people of Zio Prefecture, originating from the Ewe community, celebrated the 52nd edition of their iconic traditional festival, “Ayiza”, also known as the Bean Festival, with great enthusiasm.
The event, held on Saturday, August 10, brought together numerous dignitaries, including the Prime Minister representing the Head of State, the President of the National Assembly, a native of Zio, and various members of the government.
Under the theme “Individual and Collective Commitment in the Service of Peace and Development”, Ayiza is much more than a cultural celebration. It represents a significant ritual marking the end of an agricultural labor season and honors the historical importance of bean cultivation in the Zio region. This annual festival also pays tribute to the Ewe people’s exodus while emphasizing the value of agricultural work and the prosperity associated with the harvest.
The celebration featured lively folk dances, exhibitions of local products, and, of course, a tasting of beans, the region’s flagship product. These festivities not only showcase the cultural dynamism of the Ewe people but also their commitment to peace and sustainable development.
The Ayiza festival continues to play a vital role in preserving local traditions while serving as a platform to promote unity and prosperity in the Zio region.
