The Ga-Dangme Council of the Greater Accra Region with the aid of the Military High Command has inaugurated the Ga-Dangme Council of Asafoatsemei and Asafoanyemei at the forecourt of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) on Thursday,1 December 2022.
The Council was to re-affirm the Asafoiatsemei concept as a remedy for addressing the Socio-Economic, Cultural and Political challenges of the Ga-Dangme State. It was also to enable the council collect and collate data as well as inputs from stakeholders towards the preparation of a strategic plan and also to educate sensitive stakeholders on the Ga-Dangme Asafoiatsemei and Asafoianyemei Council’s initiative.
The council’s initiative, hitherto was for Defence and Security of the Ga-Dangme State against colonial and neo-colonial rule. Asafoiatsemei are traditional warrior leaders in the Ga-Dangme culture nominated based on descent.
The Chief of Staff (COS) at the General Headquarters, Maj Gen Nicholas Peter Andoh who represented the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Vice Admiral Seth Amoama in his speech said that, the gathering was to celebrate, review and enhance customs and tradition for the sake of posterity. It was also to respond to the changing dynamics of society while preserving the sanctity of their import and values.
He also said the ceremony was to inaugurate and induct the Ga-Dangme Asafoiatsemei and Asafoianyemei who form the Military Wing of the Ga-Dangme Stool. He reiterated that customs, beliefs and practices are passed from one generation to another therefore, these traditions and cultures identify and define us as one people.
The COS added that, the Asafoiatsemei and Asafoianyemei Stool must be recognised and reorganised for the development of the Ga-Dangme communities that host the Capital of the Nation.
