On Tuesday, February 4, 2025, the Institute of African Studies (IAS) at the University of Ghana had the honour of hosting Nana Mprah Besemuna III, the Paramount Chief of the Krachi Traditional Area. The Chief was warmly received by the Director of the Institute, Professor Samuel Ntewusu, along with a team of Senior Fellows and staff. The visit marked the beginning of a significant collaboration aimed at preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Krachi people, particularly aspects related to chieftaincy and traditional leadership.
Nana Mprah Besemuna highlighted the challenges posed by the reliance on oral tradition, which over time has led to the dilution and, in some cases, the loss of crucial information essential for the continuity of their traditions. He expressed concern that many chieftaincy titles, roles, duties, and installation processes within the Kete-Krachi community remain undefined and risk being lost as the older generation passes away. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, the Chief turned to the Institute of African Studies for its expertise in research and documentation.
The Institute was chosen for this important cultural preservation initiative due to its extensive collection of historical records from the Krachi Traditional Area, encompassing Krachi, Adele, Achode, Nchumburu, Pai, Yeji, Nawuri, and others. Professor Ntewusu commended the Chief for his foresight and assured him that the Institute, with its multidisciplinary expertise in history, anthropology, linguistics, and gender studies, was well-equipped to undertake this vital project. The Institute is committed to working closely with chiefs, elders, and community members to ensure that the documentation process authentically reflects their perspectives and lived experiences.
The discussions during the visit also covered potential funding sources and the necessary next steps to ensure the success of the project. The Institute offered guidance on securing sustainable financial support, which will be crucial for the long-term success and impact of the initiative. The goal is to produce comprehensive and accessible archival records, both written and audiovisual, to safeguard the cultural heritage of the Krachi people for future generations.
Nana Mprah Besemuna expressed his gratitude to Professor Ntewusu and his team for the productive interaction. He expressed hope that the discussed next steps would be implemented to ensure the successful realization of the project aimed at preserving the cultural heritage of his people. The visit marked the beginning of a meaningful partnership between the Krachi Traditional Area and the Institute of African Studies, ensuring that the cultural legacy of the Krachi people is preserved and celebrated for generations to come.
