In a few days we arrive in Ghana. We’ll be doing lots of “snapping” (with permission of course) from the individuals whose pictures we are taking. Although primarily English is spoken there, “Akwaaba,” which means “welcome,” is a common greeting (Ghana Tourism: http://www.touringghana.com/default.asp) we will soon be hearing. I’ve been practicing several other Akan greetings suggested by Ghana tourism:
Medaase: Thank you
Mepaokyew: Please
Maakye: Good morning
Maa ha: Good afternoon
Maa-Adjo: Good evening
Da-Yie: Good night
Nantee-Yie: Farwell
The family to which you are born and/or the day of the week on which you were born are of great significance to many ethnic groups within Ghana. GhanaWeb has a detailed article about Ga birthing rituals and naming traditions, which can be accessed with this link. After giving a present to all individuals who assisted in the birth, which is typically washing rum, the father sends one of his cloths, which is used as a pillow the newborn. This is described as ‘absolutely necessary’ as it is formal recognition by the father that the baby is his child. Eight days after the child is born the mother and father’s families meet at the paternal grandfather or father’s home in the wee hours of the night. Although this does not do the ritual justice, it involves an individual in good standing sprinkling water onto the baby, the father’s family naming the child, and the eldest person present saying a blessing for the child and his or her family.
Children are often given family names. Naming traditions for the Ankrahs, Ama, Kwate or Kpakpa, and Damte families are discussed, in addition to stool names. Stool names are given to children of families who occupy stools and are described as “the greatest of all names.” The article indicates that some Gas may also go by the day of the week on which he or she was born. This practice originated among the Twis and uses Twi language of the Akan people. As I was born on a Friday, if I had born in Ghana and received a birthday name, I might be called Afua. This site provides a great chart of birthday names for males and females with audio clips to aid in proper pronunciation.
I’ve also learned that we will be in country on African Union Day, which is May 25th. This year will be the 51st celebration of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), which became the African Union (AU). This multi-national organization “seeks to promote ‘an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in global arena” (http://summits.au.int/50th/about). It may also be referred to as African Liberation Day since this day marked the end of colonialism. Unity, solidarity, Pan-Africanism, and Renaissance are celebrated. Ghana’s Headlines Educational Center (2012) indicates that throughout the African Union children wear traditional African clothing to school. Also, a Ghana Armed Forces’ (2012) news article suggests traditional celebrations include a flag raising ceremony in Accra. It will be a privilege to be present on this day.
VCU OT Goes to Ghana 