Most African cultures have an ancestral heritage that has outlived many generations and survived until today. The people of Agotime have an ancestral heirloom that has become an international symbol of Ghana -- the Kente cloth, a beautifully woven cloth made by local weavers throughout the region. Agotime is a community whose livelihood revolves around the Kente heritage. Emmanuel Sadahem, a weaver and native of the village Kpetoe, introduced us to the Kente Festival, which is held every year to celebrate, promote and conserve the uniqueness of the Kente cloth. Several missionary couples traveled to the celebration to observe first-hand a few of the activities that took place.
Part I
Asia le torme is a tradition being kept alive by today's Ghanaians as a demonstration of the hospitality of the people of Agotime. According to history, this used to be an activity for old ladies and pure maidens when great men and women pass on or "go to the village."
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| The women go to the river to collect water. | After collecting the water, the women return to the village. |
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| They return from the riverside in single file. | We enjoyed the combination of old and new traditions. |
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| Water used to be carried in pots. Now bottles are popular. | Snacks are sold along the course the women walk. |
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| Modern-day spectators at the event. | Everyone gets involved in the festivities. |
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| The women are clad in various hand-woven Kente cloths. | An especially brave participant en route to the chief's house. |
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The seven wives of the Paramount Chief, Nene Nuer Keteku
III, receive the water in the forecourt of their home. | We doubt anyone drank the water brought from the river. |
Here is a short clip of the women carrying their water to the Paramount Chief's home in the village of Kpetoe.
