Cape Coast, Sept 1, GNA - Purification rites were performed to lift a month-long ban on fishing in the Fosu Lagoon at Cape Coast, to herald the celebration of this year's annual Fetu Afahye.

Opanyin Akwaadaa Sampson, chief priest of the Oguaa Traditional Area, carried out the rites on Tuesday, which included the pouring of libation to the god's and the casting into the lagoon, the Omanhene's net three times, amidst firing of musketry to signify the end of the ban. Nana Afari Twako, chief of Efutu, and acting President of the Oguaa Traditional Council, advised the people to observe the customs and traditions of the area and not to engage in activities that could endanger aquatic life of the lagoon.

A canoe regatta covering 300 metres was organised with the Anaafo Asafo Company becoming first with Bentsil Asafo Company taking the second position while Anaafo number two Asafo Company took the third position.

The competition was sponsored by Fan Milk Company Limited, and the first, second and third Asafo Companies took 500,000.00 cedis, 300,000.00 cedis, and 200,000.00 cedis a shield and a quantity of Tampico respectively as their prizes.

Nana Kweku Ampah, the chief of Ebubonko, chairman of the Fetu Afahye planning committee, advised the people not to only make merry during the festival but to use the occasion to unite towards the development of the area.