Fafa Bankas’ “GBIZÃ TENT VILLAGE ’25” Steals the Spotlight at the 30th GBIZÃ Festival

The 30th anniversary of the iconic GBIZÃ Festival will be remembered for its colour, culture, and community spirit; but one initiative stood out brilliantly among the celebrations: Fafa Bankas’s groundbreaking “GBIZÃ TENT VILLAGE ’25.”

In a year defined by cultural revival and artistic vibrance, the Tent Village quickly became the heartbeat of the festival. What began as a simple idea, to enhance festival accommodation, evolved into one of the most talked-about attractions, blending adventure, nature, comfort, and tradition into a seamless experience.

A Bold Vision, Beautifully Executed

Powered by creativity and a passion for tourism innovation, Fafa Bankas introduced the Tent Village as a refreshing alternative to conventional lodging. Her goal was simple yet profound: to create a serene “festival community” within the larger GBIZÃ celebration, a place where visitors could rest, bond, and connect with the natural charm of Peki Avetile–Gadenme in the Volta Region.

The result captivated everyone. A stunning tented landscape; well arranged, beautifully lit, and thoughtfully spaced, welcomed guests into an environment that balanced privacy with warmth and adventure.

A Festival Within the Festival

The Tent Village offered far more than a place to sleep. It grew into a full cultural experience. Guests enjoyed a lineup of curated attractions, including:

Bonfire storytelling sessions filled with laughter, music, and starlit conversations

BBQ experiences that fused local flavour with outdoor excitement

Palm wine tastings celebrating indigenous heritage

A photobooth space for capturing festival memories

By weaving leisure, culture, and adventure together, Fafa created a space that resonated deeply with adventurers, cultural enthusiasts, and first-time festival-goers.

Fafa Speaks: “This Dream Has Finally Come to Life”

In a brief conversation after the event, an emotional yet fulfilled Fafa Bankas reflected on the journey:

“I’m truly happy that this dream has finally come to pass. Bringing the GBIZÃ Tent Village to life has been one of my most meaningful projects, and I’m looking forward to even greater ones in the future.”

“My deepest gratitude goes to everyone who supported this vision; Hon. Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Hon. Tsekpo Worlanyo Thomas, Hon. Courage Kwame Kokroko, Mr. Fred Balasu, Mr. Etoenyo Bankas, Mr. Martin Anncou, Mr. Foli Wisdom, Mr. Yaw Ababio, Doris Bramson, Seyram Music & Vroom Band, Selorm Ameza, Thomas Smile & Nii and all my friends and family. This success belongs to all of us.”

Fafa further expressed sincere gratitude to all the chiefs and elders for there support, to the community for giving out the space, and to the OverLord of Peki Traditional Area, Deiga Kwadzo Dei XII.

Her words echoed the spirit of community, collaboration, and cultural pride that shaped the entire project.

A Signature Experience for GBIZA @ 30

Turning 30 is a milestone, and the GBIZÃ Festival needed something extraordinary; and it found exactly that in the Tent Village. It quickly became the go-to hub for influencers, travellers, nature lovers, and festival enthusiasts. Many described it as “the soul of GBIZÃ 2025,” praising its ambience, originality, and welcoming spirit.

With energetic performances from Seyram Music, Selorm Ameza, Thomas Smile, Jcurtz, and others, alongside traditional displays, the Tent Village carved its own vibrant identity within the larger celebration.

Boosting Tourism and Supporting Local Livelihoods

Beyond its charm, the project delivered real social and economic benefits. It: Created jobs, Supported local artisans, Collaborated with small businesses and food vendors and sourced materials within the community

Its impact positioned Peki as a budding eco-tourism destination, sparking discussions about future expansions and adventure tourism opportunities.

A Legacy That Sets a New Standard

As GBIZÃ 2025 drew to a close, one truth remained clear: GBIZÃ TENT VILLAGE ’25 was a transformational addition to the festival.

It elevated Peki Avetile–Gadenme, set a fresh benchmark for festival accommodation, and cemented Fafa Bankas’s role as a visionary cultural innovator.

Attendees departed with warm stories, new friendships, and memories deeply tied to the magical atmosphere of the Tent Village.

Fafa Bankas didn’t just build a tent community, she created a phenomenon.

And in doing so, she reminded everyone that when passion meets vision, something truly extraordinary is born.