On 31st December 2024, a historic event took place as Nana Afia Siraa-Ababio III, Queen Mother of the Werempe Division of Berekum and Kato Stool, hosted a naming and adoption ceremony for 14 Black Americans who traced their ancestral roots to Ghana, specifically to the Kato Stool.
This symbolic event, which celebrated heritage and reconnection, was held in Accra with a distinguished assembly, including the Chief and elders of the Asere Ga Traditional Council, prominent members of the Association of Global Traditional Leaders in Development (AGLOTLED) such as Nana Kweku Kumi I and Nana Kuruwaa Ampem I, and the AKCOMLIB-GH team.
Journey and Preparations
The entourage from Kato, led by Nana Afia Siraa-Ababio III, departed Berekum at 8:00 PM and arrived in Accra at 6:00 AM, lodging at the Mascot Hotel. Nana Kweku Kumi I and a dedicated team arrived early at the venue to finalize preparations.
The ceremony commenced with a traditional Ga welcome prayer performed by a priest, invoking blessings and officially welcoming the adopted children and attendees.
Traditional Dress and Arrival
The adopted children were dressed in beautiful kente outfits, provided by Nana Afia Siraa-Ababio III. They were warmly welcomed by their new mother, the Queen Mother, and escorted to the palace where the event was to take place.
Opening Prayers and Welcome Address
At 10:20 AM, Nana Afia Siraa-Ababio III’s linguist, Okyeame Amankwaa, performed a traditional Akan prayer, seeking blessings for the ceremony.
In her welcome address, Nana Afia Siraa-Ababio III expressed her joy in reuniting the adopted individuals with their ancestral roots. She extended gratitude to AGLOTLED members, chiefs, and elders from the Ga community for their support and hospitality.
Naming and Adoption Rituals
The naming ceremony was rich in Akan traditions. Each adoptee was given an Akan name, with Nana Afia Siraa-Ababio III explaining the meaning and significance of their names.
The ritual of touching the adoptees’ tongues with water and wine was performed to symbolize truthfulness—a cornerstone of Akan values. This act emphasized the importance of honesty, as the saying goes, “If you see water, say water; if you see wine, say wine.”
Cultural Display
The AhobraseÉ› Cultural Group delighted attendees with a vibrant kete dance, immersing the gathering in the richness of African tradition.
Presentations and Appreciation
The Project Coordinator of AKCOMLIB-GH, Mr. Kwaku Kyere, delivered an engaging presentation on the organization’s charitable works and vision. He highlighted AKCOMLIB-GH’s efforts in supporting orphans, marginalized children, and the less privileged, as well as AGLOTLED’s initiatives in promoting culture and development.
The adopted individuals expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome and the opportunity to reconnect with their heritage.
Closing and Farewell
The event concluded with a traditional closing prayer, seeking guidance and protection for the adoptees as they journeyed back to America and blessings for all attendees.
Attendees took a group photograph, followed by individual pictures with Nana Afia Siraa-Ababio III, marking the memorable occasion.
Madam Vesta Addai Saby and Nana Kweku Kumi I, proud AGLOTLED members, served traditional African drinks such as sobolo and asaana, adding a refreshing and authentic touch to the ceremony.
The program officially ended at 5:03 PM, leaving attendees inspired and deeply connected to their roots.
Prepared by Zakaria Hudu Krah
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