Stories and facts

The Kalibi Festival is an annual celebration held by the chiefs and people of Sankana, a town in the Nadowli-Kaleo district in the Upper West Region of Ghana. This vibrant festival typically takes place in April and is marked by a variety of traditional activities and ceremonies.

During the Kalibi Festival, visitors are warmly welcomed to partake in the sharing of food and drinks, reflecting the community's hospitality and sense of togetherness.

The locals don their traditional attire, adding a colorful and cultural richness to the event. A highlight of the festival is the durbar of chiefs, a ceremonial gathering that showcases the traditional leadership and cultural heritage of the Sankana people.

The air is filled with the sounds of dancing and drumming, creating a lively and festive atmosphere that resonates throughout the town.

The significance of the Kalibi Festival goes beyond its vibrant celebrations. It serves as a commemoration of the victory of the local people over the slave raiders led by Babatu and Samori in 1896. T

his historical triumph is remembered and honored during the festival, reinforcing a sense of pride and resilience within the community.

Additionally, the festival is an occasion for the people to seek blessings from their ancestors, asking for good health and prosperity in the year ahead.

The Kalibi Festival, therefore, is not only a celebration of cultural heritage but also a time of reflection and hope for the future.

Explore the various festivals celebrated in Ghana below.