The Dutch established a lodge at Senya Beraku in 1667, and entered into a long-standing relationship with the Agona State.

The Dutch subsequently built a fort there, due to the potential trade in gold, ivory and slaves with the Akyem kingdom located in the hinterland.

In 1705-06, the Dutch constructed a small triangular fort on a promontory located near a cove, with a good landing beach.

The Dutch named it ‘De Goede Hoop’, meaning “Good Hope”.