Keta: Ghana's Hidden Coastal Gem
Discover the serene beaches, historic forts, and vibrant culture of Keta, Ghana's hidden coastal gem.
Nestled along the southeastern coast of Ghana, Keta is a treasure trove of natural beauty and rich history. This serene town offers pristine beaches and a tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure. The warm, inviting sands of Keta Beach are ideal for sunbathing, beach sports, or simply enjoying the calming waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Keta is also home to the historic Fort Prinzenstein, a poignant reminder of the area's colonial past. Built by the Danes in the 18th century, this fort once served as a trading post and played a significant role during the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Today, visitors can explore its remnants and learn about its history through guided tours, offering a somber yet enlightening experience. Nature enthusiasts will find paradise at the Keta Lagoon Complex, one of the largest wetlands in Ghana. This biodiverse area is perfect for bird watching, with numerous species to be spotted, including the rare African Manatee. The lagoon also supports local fishing communities, and visitors can observe traditional practices or even join in the activities. Keta's vibrant markets and friendly locals add to its charm. The town's market is bustling with activity, offering fresh seafood, fruits, and traditional crafts. It's an excellent place to immerse yourself in local culture and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir. With its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness, Keta is a destination that promises unforgettable memories.
Local tips in Keta
- Visit during the dry season (November to March) for the best weather and to avoid heavy rains.
- Take a guided tour of Fort Prinzenstein to fully appreciate its historical significance.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching at the Keta Lagoon Complex.
- Try the local seafood at the Keta market for an authentic taste of the region.
- Carry insect repellent, especially if you plan to visit the wetlands.
- Engage with local fishermen to learn about traditional fishing practices.
Keta: Ghana's Hidden Coastal Gem
Nestled along the southeastern coast of Ghana, Keta is a treasure trove of natural beauty and rich history. This serene town offers pristine beaches and a tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure. The warm, inviting sands of Keta Beach are ideal for sunbathing, beach sports, or simply enjoying the calming waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Keta is also home to the historic Fort Prinzenstein, a poignant reminder of the area's colonial past. Built by the Danes in the 18th century, this fort once served as a trading post and played a significant role during the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Today, visitors can explore its remnants and learn about its history through guided tours, offering a somber yet enlightening experience. Nature enthusiasts will find paradise at the Keta Lagoon Complex, one of the largest wetlands in Ghana. This biodiverse area is perfect for bird watching, with numerous species to be spotted, including the rare African Manatee. The lagoon also supports local fishing communities, and visitors can observe traditional practices or even join in the activities. Keta's vibrant markets and friendly locals add to its charm. The town's market is bustling with activity, offering fresh seafood, fruits, and traditional crafts. It's an excellent place to immerse yourself in local culture and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir. With its blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness, Keta is a destination that promises unforgettable memories.
When is the best time to go to Keta?
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park & Mausoleum
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Aborigines Beach Resort
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National Museum of Ghana
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Boti Waterfalls
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Osu Castle
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Eli Beach Resort
Experience the serenity and beauty of Eli Beach Resort in Keta, where luxury meets the stunning Ghanaian coastline for an unforgettable vacation.
Meet Me There Eco Lodge
Experience the serene beauty and authentic Ghanaian hospitality at Meet Me There Eco Lodge in Dzita, Keta, a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
Fort Prinzenstein, Keta
Explore the historical Fort Prinzenstein in Keta, Ghana, a captivating site blending rich heritage with breathtaking coastal views.
Nzulezo-Stilt Village Tour
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Keta Beach Hotel
Experience the coastal charm and vibrant atmosphere of Keta Beach Hotel, your gateway to exploring the beautiful shores of Ghana.
Keta Lagoon
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The Chill River Resort
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Agblor Lodge
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Unmissable attractions to see
Akodessewa Fetish Market
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Songor Lagoon Protected Area
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Ekpeame Beach Resort
Discover the serene beauty of Ekpeame Beach Resort in Keta, Ghana, where golden sands meet tranquil waves for an unforgettable getaway.
Royal Beach Keta
Royal Beach Keta: A serene public beach in Keta, Ghana, where pristine sands meet vibrant culture, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Torgbui Sri Park
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Denu Beach
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Jubilee Rum Resort
Experience Ghanaian hospitality at Jubilee Rum Resort, where culture, comfort, and scenic beauty blend seamlessly for an unforgettable getaway.
Volta Estuary, Ada Foah
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TORGBI HORGBATO SHRINE SROHUME AGBOZUME V/R GHANA
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Eyram Beach Club
Discover the charm of Eyram Beach Club, where stunning coastal beauty meets authentic Ghanaian culture in Mafi - Adidome.
Xavi Junction
Experience the vibrant culture and local charm at Xavi Junction, a must-visit tourist attraction in Akatsi, Ghana, perfect for cultural immersion and exploration.
Vinyome Lagoon
Explore the tranquility of Vinyome Lagoon in Tengekope, a stunning natural attraction perfect for relaxation and birdwatching.
Tsiame Forest Reserved
Explore the lush landscapes and rich biodiversity of Tsiame Forest Reserved, a natural sanctuary in Ghana that promises adventure and tranquility.
Tacks corner Lagoon
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Department of parks and gardens keta municipal assembly
Experience the natural beauty of Keta Municipal Assembly Parks and Gardens, a serene escape for tourists seeking tranquility in Ghana's coastal town.
Essential places to dine
Ike’s Cafe and Grill
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MEET AND EAT
Experience vibrant flavors at Meet and Eat in Tema - where local cuisine meets international delights in a welcoming atmosphere.
Grillers
Savor delicious fast food at Grillers in Takoradi – where tasty meals meet great company!
Arirang Restaurant and Guest House
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Ramakos Restaurant
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In-n-out chillies
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Concept Foods Restaurant
Discover the flavors of Ghana at Concept Foods Restaurant in Akropong - where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Lemon Beach Restaurant
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Grace And Glory Restaurant
Experience authentic Ghanaian cuisine at Grace And Glory Restaurant in Keta—where flavor meets affordability.
Keta Chopbar
Discover authentic Ghanaian cuisine at Keta Chopbar in Takoradi - a cultural gem offering delicious traditional dishes.
Mama's Inn Bar And Restaurant
Experience authentic Ghanaian cuisine at Mama's Inn Bar And Restaurant in Keta - where flavors come alive in a vibrant setting.
Christyle Locals & Continentals
Experience authentic Ghanaian and continental cuisine at Christyle Locals & Continentals in Keta – a must-visit dining destination for every traveler.
Chillout Eatery and Pub
Discover delicious fast food at Chillout Eatery and Pub in Akropong - where flavor meets relaxation in a cozy setting.
Navi Beans
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Adzido Secret Line
Experience the authentic flavors of Ghana at Adzido Secret Line in Keta, where culinary excellence meets warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
BABY LAST ENTERPRISE
Discover Baby Last Enterprise in Keta, your one-stop destination for all auto parts and accessories, ensuring a smooth journey through Ghana's beautiful landscapes.
Good Books and Others
Explore the literary treasures of Keta at Good Books and Others, a charming book store with a rich selection of local and international literature.
Tomary Ventures
Explore the vibrant flavors of Ghana at Tomary Ventures, Keta's premier grocery store for fresh produce and local delicacies.
Dzialet
Explore the heart of Keta at Dzialet, where local culture meets unique shopping experiences.
Gifty's Enterprise
Explore local flavors and essential goods at Gifty's Enterprise, a grocery store in Keta, Ghana, perfect for tourists seeking authentic culinary experiences.
CLIDEM HERBAL CLINIC LTD.
Explore natural wellness with a visit to Clidem Herbal Clinic Ltd. in Keta, where herbal remedies and holistic health meet.
Vigilant Lotto Shop
Experience the thrill of chance at Vigilant Lotto Shop in Keta, Ghana, where locals and tourists come together to play and share in the excitement of lottery games.
Trendy Store Keta
Discover the latest fashion trends at Trendy Store Keta, where style meets local culture in the heart of Ghana.
Channel 101 Soundz
Explore cutting-edge technology and local culture at Channel 101 Soundz in Keta, your go-to electronics store for all your tech needs.
Keta Market
Discover Keta Market, where local culture thrives amidst vibrant colors, aromas, and flavors of Ghanaian life.
Dripping_mens Store
Explore Dripping Mens Store in Keta for stylish clothing and accessories that reflect the local culture and fashion trends.
Sgt Auto Workshop
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DIVINE FAVOUR ELECTRICALS
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VICTOR ELECTRONICS KETA
Discover the best electronics and local goods at Victor Electronics Keta, a vibrant shopping mall in the heart of Keta, Ghana.
VIBERS SPORTS
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Scoops Pub
Discover the lively nightlife and local flavors at Scoops Pub in Keta, the perfect spot for travelers to unwind and socialize.
Ekui's Inn
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Grace And Glory Restaurant
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SaltCity Pub
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Mama's Inn Bar And Restaurant
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SPESS PUB
Discover the lively ambiance of SPESS PUB in Keta, where local culture meets a vibrant nightlife experience, perfect for all visitors.
Cocobay Resort
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Christyle Locals & Continentals
Explore the culinary diversity of Keta at Christyle Locals & Continentals, where local flavors meet continental cuisine in a warm, inviting setting.
De Breeze
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Eli Beach Resort Bar
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Navi BB
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OKro Mouth
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Drop Inn Beach Pub
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Navi Beans
Discover the flavors of Keta at Navi Beans, where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a cozy dining atmosphere.
Hideout Bar & Grill Gh
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Keta at Hideout Bar & Grill, where local flavors and refreshing drinks come together in a cozy atmosphere.
Local Phrases about Keta
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- HelloKu ɖe ɖe
[Koo deh deh] - GoodbyeBlɔ ni
[Blor nee] - YesEe
[Eh] - NoAwoe
[Ah-woe] - Please/You're welcomeMiawo
[Me-ah-wo] - Thank youAkpe
[Ah-kpeh] - Excuse me/SorryƉeŋ ɖeŋ
[Dehng dehng] - How are you?Gɔme ɖeɖe na wo?
[Goh-meh deh-deh nah woh] - Fine. And you?Gɔme me e, na wuwo?
[Goh-meh meh eh, nah woo-woh] - Do you speak English?Ŋlɔ me ɖeŋlɔviwo be wo?
[Nglor meh dehng-loh-vee-wo beh woh] - I don't understandMe ɖeɖeŋ
[Meh deh-dehng]
- HelloKu ɖe ɖe
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMawo me ɖzɔlɔviwo, miawo
[Mah-wo meh dzo-loh-vee-wo, me-ah-wo] - I don't eat meatMe ŋutɔ ɖu
[Meh ngu-toh doo] - Cheers!Bra
[Brah] - I would like to pay, pleaseMawo me ɖeɖeŋ, miawo
[Mah-wo meh deh-dehng, me-ah-wo]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMawo me ɖzɔlɔviwo, miawo
-
- Help!Meyɔ
[Meh-yoh] - Go away!Woo
[Woh] - Call the Police!Ŋlɔ me dɔviwo
[Nglor meh doh-vee-wo] - Call a doctor!Ŋlɔ me kɔkɔviwo
[Nglor meh koh-koh-vee-wo] - I'm lostMe mɔwo
[Meh moh-woh] - I'm illMe gbɔkɔ
[Meh gboh-koh]
- Help!Meyɔ
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- I'd like to buy...Mawo me ...
[Mah-wo meh ...] - I'm just lookingMe ɖeɖeŋ ɖeŋ
[Meh deh-dehng dehng] - How much is it?Ɖeŋlɔ me ɖa be wo?
[Dehng-loh meh dah beh woh] - That's too expensiveƉa be nɔnɔ
[Dah beh noh-noh] - Can you lower the price?Ɖeŋlɔ me ɖa be bɔ gɔme?
[Dehng-loh meh dah beh boh goh-meh]
- I'd like to buy...Mawo me ...
-
- What time is it?Ɖeŋlɔ ɖeɖe na wo?
[Dehng-loh deh-deh nah woh] - It's one o'clockAme ɖeka
[Ah-meh deh-kah] - Half past (10)Ɖekaŋlɔ
[Deh-kah-ngloh] - Morningŋutɔ
[Ngu-toh] - Afternoondada
[dah-dah] - Eveningɖeka
[deh-kah] - Yesterdayɖeka la
[deh-kah lah] - Todayɖeka yi
[deh-kah yee] - Tomorrowɖeka le
[deh-kah leh] - 1yi
[yee] - 2etu
[eh-too] - 3nɛ
[neh] - 4nɔ
[noh] - 5nu
[noo] - 6vɔ
[voh] - 7vi
[vee] - 8ya
[yah] - 9dze
[zeh] - 10yɔ
[yo]
- What time is it?Ɖeŋlɔ ɖeɖe na wo?
-
- Where's a/the...?Ɖeŋlɔ ... be wo?
[Dehng-loh ... beh woh] - What's the address?Ɖeŋ me ɖeɖe be wo?
[Dehng meh deh-deh beh woh] - Can you show me (on the map)?Ɖeŋlɔ me ɖa be ɖeɖeŋ (kple map)?
[Dehng-loh meh dah beh deh-dehng (kpleh map)] - When's the next (bus)?Ŋlɔ me ɖeka (troski)?
[Nglor meh deh-kah (trohs-kee)] - A ticket (to ....)Tiket (kpɔ ...)
[Tee-keht (kpo ...)]
- Where's a/the...?Ɖeŋlɔ ... be wo?
History of Keta
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Keta, located in the Volta Region of Ghana, was originally founded by the Anlo Ewe people in the late 15th century. The town became an important trading hub due to its strategic coastal location along the Gulf of Guinea. Fishing and salt production were the primary economic activities during its early years.
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In the mid-18th century, the Danish colonialists constructed Fort Prinzenstein in Keta. The fort was built as part of the Danish Gold Coast and served as a trading post for goods, including the tragic transatlantic slave trade. Fort Prinzenstein stands today as a poignant reminder of the town's colonial past and the atrocities of the slave trade.
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Over the years, Keta has faced significant challenges due to coastal erosion. The relentless encroachment of the sea has led to the submergence of parts of the town. Efforts to combat this issue have included the construction of sea defense walls, but the town's landscape and infrastructure have been deeply affected.
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The Keta Lagoon Complex is one of the most significant wetlands in Ghana and a Ramsar site. It is a vital habitat for various bird species and supports the livelihoods of local communities through fishing and salt production. The lagoon is also culturally significant, featuring in many local myths and traditional practices.
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The Hogbetsotso Festival is an annual event celebrated by the Anlo Ewe people of Keta. It commemorates the historic migration of the Ewes from Notsie in present-day Togo to their current settlements in Ghana. The festival features colorful parades, traditional dances, and rituals, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the people.
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Today, Keta is a blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, attracting tourists from around the world. Visitors can explore Fort Prinzenstein, enjoy the picturesque Keta Lagoon, and participate in local festivals. The town's unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty makes it a compelling destination.
Keta Essentials
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Keta is located in the Volta Region of Ghana. The nearest major airport is Kotoka International Airport in Accra, approximately 150 kilometers away. From Accra, you can take a bus or a taxi to Keta. The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours by road, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can hire a private car for a more comfortable trip.
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In Keta, local transportation options include taxis, motorbikes, and tro-tros (shared mini-buses). Taxis are a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to get around. Tro-tros are a cheaper option but can be crowded. Renting a bicycle is also a great way to explore the town and its surroundings at your own pace.
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The official currency in Ghana is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). Credit and debit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger establishments, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller shops and local markets. ATMs are available in Keta, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Accra before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.
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Keta is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Keta does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always best practice.
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In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Keta. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites and local communities. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. It is customary to ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in religious settings. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
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To experience Keta like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Ghanaian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Fort Prinzenstein, an important historical site. For a unique experience, take a boat ride on the Keta Lagoon, which offers beautiful views and a chance to see local wildlife.
Trending Landmarks in Keta
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IDARKCONSULT LTD
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Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park & Mausoleum
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Aborigines Beach Resort
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National Museum of Ghana
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Boti Waterfalls
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Osu Castle
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Eli Beach Resort
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Meet Me There Eco Lodge
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Fort Prinzenstein, Keta
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Nzulezo-Stilt Village Tour
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Keta Beach Hotel
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Keta Lagoon
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The Chill River Resort
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Fort Metal Cross | TortoisePath.com
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Agblor Lodge
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