By: Jeremiah Nutsugah
Ghana, known as the “Gateway to West Africa,” is a land rich in cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and artistic expression. From its colorful festivals to its intricate artifacts, Ghana’s cultural tapestry reflects the diversity and resilience of its people.
Steeped in history and tradition, Ghana’s heritage serves as a source of pride and identity for its citizens, providing a glimpse into the past while guiding the future.
March is a month dedicated to celebrating Ghana’s rich history, vibrant culture, and most importantly, its monumental victory in achieving independence from British colonial rule in 1957. As a new day dawns, let us take a moment to reflect on the elements that define us as Ghanaians.
The Hearth
The hearth, known as ‘Mukyea’ in the Akan language and ‘La-teh’ in the Ga language, holds a significant place in traditional Ghanaian homes, playing a vital role in daily life.
Crafted from a mixture of clay and water, the hearth is shaped and left to dry for several days before being used for cooking. In the absence of ovens during the 16th and 17th centuries, this traditional hearth served as the primary means of cooking, providing the necessary heat for preparing meals at home.
Despite the convenience offered by modern ovens and electric cookers, many Ghanaians still appreciate the unique taste and flavor imparted by food cooked on a hearth. Traditionalists and typical Ghanaians alike often attest that dishes prepared on a hearth possess a distinct and superior taste compared to those cooked on metal coal pots or electric cookers.
The Earthenware
Earthenware and wooden grinders hold a rich history in Ghanaian culture, tracing back to ancient times. These objects, crafted with care and tradition, serve various practical and cultural purposes within Ghanaian society. Earthenware, known for its diverse array of colors, reflects the regional diversity of Ghana.
Black earthenware, crafted in the Eastern Region, stands distinct from the brown earthenware produced in Nfensi in the Ashanti Region and Tano-North in the Bono Region. Tano-North, renowned for its craftsmanship, often produces both black and brown earthenwares, showcasing its versatility and skill.
These earthenware pieces serve as essential tools in Ghanaian kitchens, used for grinding pepper, tomatoes, garden eggs, and other ingredients. Beyond their practical function, they also hold cultural significance, often being used in homes and restaurants to serve meals, particularly fufu or the traditional dish known as ‘Kokonte’.
Through their usage, earthenware and wooden grinders not only facilitate culinary practices but also uphold and celebrate Ghana’s rich cultural heritage.
Basket
Baskets, once primarily utilized by women for shopping or transporting food to farms in the past, have now emerged as ubiquitous items in contemporary times. Locally called ‘K3nt3n’ by the Akans and Ga-Adangbe, it is significant in the history of the famous Okomfo Anokye.
These baskets are typically handwoven in Bolgatanga, located in the Northern Region, as well as in the Greater Accra Region. Ghanaians take pride in the array of beautiful and culturally significant objects within their heritage, with traditional baskets holding a cherished place.
In modern times, the allure of these traditional baskets remains undiminished. Loved ones often opt to present gifts in rattan baskets, eschewing ordinary plastic bowls, as the former exude an irresistible charm and boast exceptional durability.
Canoes
Canoes stand as emblematic symbols of Ghana’s coastal communities, where fishing sustains livelihoods and fosters cultural traditions. Crafted with precision and skill, these canoes serve as vital tools for navigating the waters and supporting the local fishing industry.
Made from sturdy wood, these canoes provide a reliable means of transportation for fishermen as they venture into the depths of the ocean. Their robust construction ensures the safety of fishermen during their perilous expeditions, offering a sense of security amidst the unpredictable waters.
Beyond their practical function, canoes also hold cultural significance within Ghanaian coastal communities. Some canoe owners adorn their vessels with motivational messages, serving as inspirational beacons for others in the community. These messages not only uplift spirits but also embody the resilience and determination of Ghana’s fishing communities.
Wooden drums
Wooden drums, adorned with intricate African designs, stand as timeless symbols of Ghana’s rich cultural heritage. Available in a myriad of sizes and colors, these drums serve as powerful storytellers, echoing the rhythms of Ghanaian life and tradition.
Traditionally crafted with care and attention to detail, these drums hold deep cultural significance and are integral to various aspects of Ghanaian society. They resonate with the heartbeat of the nation, pulsating with energy during festivals, installations of chiefs and queens, and school anniversary celebrations.
Embodying the spirit of communal celebration, wooden drums take center stage during national occasions such as the annual Independence Day on March 6th. Their resounding beats unite people from all walks of life, fostering a sense of unity and pride in Ghana’s cultural identity.
Beads
Beads play is a significant part of the Ghanaian culture, mostly worn by women and royals. Fashion has now paved way for all interested persons to also wear beads around their wrists.
Historically, women wearing beads around their waist symbolize womanhood, sexuality, femininity, fertility, healing, spirituality, body shaping, first menses, protection, seduction, and wealth, amongst other things. Traditional leaders also wear beads around their wrists, necks and ankles to symbolize authority.
Rattan furniture
Rattan furniture stands out as a rare and affordable treasure in Ghana, favored by elites and expatriates alike. Its unique design captivates Ghanaians and tourists alike, drawing them to adorn their homes with its charm. Crafted locally in Ghana, particularly in cities like Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale.
Rattan furniture boasts versatility, gracing corporate offices, homes, restaurants, and pubs with its allure. Just like traditional wooden furniture made from Odum, Wawa, or Iroko trees, rattan pieces serve as captivating accents, attracting attention wherever they are placed.
The elephant grass is also used to make hand fans. It is used to fan royals and others also use them in the kitchen.
Even though there are a wide variety of artefacts that spell out the rich cultural heritage of Ghana, these eight is very imminent in the socialization process of a home grown Ghanaian.
