Tourism Attractions

Agona West has plenty of attractions for tourists, whether their preference be in enjoying the scenic beauty of nature, studying the various dimensions of local culture or simply relaxing within recreational spots. Importantly, many of these sites could do with development, which therefore opens opportunities for investors in the industry. The confluence of the Akora and Ayensu Rivers at Domoki, a small farming community, almost five kilometres from Swedru, the district capital, is one such site.

At the point of confluence, each river retains its distinctly different colours, a very intriguing phenomenon. Investors could develop the site and provide boats for hire in order to attract greater tourist patronage. Another is the Swedru “Akora Beach” near Nkubem, a suburb of Swedru. The rocky nature and cascading water of the Akora River at the spot, coupled with the fast currents give it beautiful scenery which attracts tourists.Investors can develop the banks of the river into a park and recreational grounds.

Then, there are the nine tributaries of the Ayensu River at Agona Mankrong, about 32kilometres to the east of Agona Swedru. The nature of the riverbed is rocky with fast currents. Fish, crabs and lobsters abound during the rainy season. The meandering nature of the nine tributaries, coupled with the cool atmosphere provided by the vegetation cover, proves very interesting and relaxing.At Abodom, along the River Piprah, 16 kilometres to the north of Agona Swedru, is the home of a dancing alligator.

The alligator dances to the rhythm of Asafo drums during the Akwambo Festival.There are several other interesting tourist attractions in the district. These include the tombs of Basel Missionaries at Agona Nsaba, the Royal Mausoleum at Agona Swedru, a big hole at Lower Bobikuma and a hill at Upper Bobikuma. Others are Asebu Amenfi’s finger on a rock at Agona Abodom and a big Odum tree on a solid rock at Agona Asafo.

Festivals and Funerals

Festivals are important in the social life of the people in Agona District. The "Akwambo" festival is the most important traditional festival instituted for the spiritual reunion of the people. It is celebrated every year between August and October. As a social festivity, it also an occasion where communities plan their developmental activities including strategies for mobilizing funds for project implementation.

Funeral rites that provide solemn occasions for sober reflection have also become occasions that bring people together. It is one single most important event that brings the youth home to mourn with their people. It also enable the youth visit their old parents. Business in mourning cloth is quit brisk, particularly, Swedru.