Stories and facts

Originally a quaint fishing village, Keta Beach has undergone remarkable transformations over the years to become a sought-after tourist hotspot. The region thrived through fishing, agriculture, and trade, attracting merchants from distant lands. As the capital of the Keta Municipal District, it holds a prominent position as a coastal town.

The establishment of Keta can be traced back to the Anlo Ewe, a subgroup of the Ewe people who migrated to the area in the 17th century, travelling from Ketu in Benin through Adja Tado and Notsie in Togo. Throughout its history, Keta served as a vital trading post from the 14th century until the late 20th century. The Danes took a particular interest in the town, seeing it as a suitable location for establishing a base free from interference from rival European nations. Initially, the Danish set up a factory in Keta for the sale of alcohol.

In 1792, a conflict erupted between Anloga and Keta, prompting the majority of the original inhabitants to migrate across the lagoon to Klikor. They went on to establish the Somey State, with Agbozume as its capital. Subsequently, Keta was repopulated by people from surrounding communities who migrated to the area.

Keta, the Majestic Sand's Peak, were the uttered words of Torgbui Wenya, the visionary behind the establishment of Anlo State, as he beheld the captivating sand dunes that stretched along the seashore. Departing from his compatriots in the neighbouring town of Wheta Atiteti, Wenya embarked on a journey to establish his own settlement in Anloga. Over the course of time, the inhabitants of Keta came to be known as Agudzeawo, meaning "Easterners," denoting their geographical position to the east of Anloga.

The arrival of European colonial powers in the 15th century brought significant changes to Keta Beach. The Portuguese, Dutch, Danish, and British all sought control of the region at different points in history. The area became a hotspot for the slave trade, with European powers establishing forts and trading posts along the coast. Keta Beach itself was under Danish and later British control.

In the post-independence era, Keta Beach began to attract local and international tourists seeking solace in its pristine shores and tranquil ambience. The government recognized the potential of the area and invested in the development of tourist infrastructure, including hotels, resorts, and recreational facilities. The beach's natural beauty, warm waters, and gentle waves made it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Keta Beach is not just a place of leisure; it also holds cultural significance. The local communities, deeply rooted in traditions and customs, have preserved their heritage despite changing times. Visitors to Keta Beach have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture, witness traditional ceremonies, and indulge in authentic Ghanaian cuisine.

Keta Beach continues to enchant visitors with its idyllic beauty and serene atmosphere. The beachfront offers a range of activities, from sunbathing and swimming to water sports and beach volleyball. Travellers can also explore nearby attractions such as the Keta Lagoon, Fort Prinzenstein, and the Keta Museum, each offering a glimpse into the region's captivating history.

The Keta Lagoon in Ghana holds the distinction of being the largest lagoon in the country, encompassing a water area spanning 300 km2. Situated within a sprawling protected wetlands area measuring 1200 km2, it serves as a vital habitat for numerous migratory birds and serves as a crucial nesting site for sea turtles. An additional noteworthy feature of the Keta Lagoon is its abundant reserves of salt, making it renowned for its vast quantities of this valuable mineral.