Why the Ashantis
Are Powerful in Ghana
Ghana, a country in West Africa celebrated for its cultural diversity,
history, and democratic stability, is home to over 100 ethnic groups. Among
them, the Ashantis or Asante stand out as one of the most influential and
powerful groups in the country. Rooted in centuries of history, their power
derives not only from their economic and political weight but also from their
social cohesion, cultural resilience, and rich traditions that continue to
influence Ghanaian identity today.
This article explores in depth why the Ashantis are powerful in Ghana,
examining their history, political organization, economic influence, cultural
legacy, and continued relevance in the modern Ghanaian state.
Historical Foundations of
Ashanti Power
The Ashanti Empire, which emerged in the late 17th
century, is central to understanding their power today. Founded by King Osei
Tutu I and his spiritual advisor, Okomfo Anokye, the Ashanti state was consolidated
around the Golden Stool, a sacred symbol
of unity and authority. The stool represented the soul of the Ashanti people,
binding them spiritually and politically into a formidable confederation.
By the 18th century, the Ashanti Empire had become one of the most powerful
states in West Africa. Through military strength, strategic alliances, and
control of trade routes, the Ashantis expanded their territory and wealth. They
controlled key trade commodities such as gold, kola nuts, and later,
slaves, making their capital, Kumasi, an important commercial hub.
The empire’s ability to resist multiple British invasions during the 19th
century further reinforced Ashanti prestige. Though eventually subdued in 1901
and incorporated into the Gold Coast colony, the Ashantis retained significant
cultural autonomy. Their ability to withstand colonial domination longer than
many other groups in the region created a lasting legacy of strength and
independence that continues to shape perceptions of Ashanti power today.
Political Organization and
Influence
The Ashantis’ enduring power is tied to their
sophisticated political structure. Unlike many centralized African kingdoms
that collapsed after colonization, the Ashantis maintained a well-organized
traditional governance system that coexists with Ghana’s modern political
system.
At the heart of Ashanti governance is the Asantehene, the
King of the Ashanti. The current occupant of the Golden Stool, Otumfuo Osei
Tutu II, is not only a cultural leader but also a respected figure in Ghanaian
politics and society. The Asantehene wields considerable influence in
mediation, conflict resolution, and national development discussions. His role
extends beyond ceremonial functions, often positioning him as a unifying figure
in times of national crisis.
Supporting the Asantehene is a network of chiefs, sub-chiefs, and queen
mothers, who govern local communities within the Ashanti region. This layered
political system, grounded in respect for tradition, creates strong internal cohesion.
Importantly, Ashanti traditional leadership has remained relevant by adapting
to modern realities, such as engaging in education, healthcare initiatives, and
economic projects.
In Ghanaian national politics, the Ashanti region is also a stronghold for
the New Patriotic Party (NPP), one of the two dominant political parties. The
voting strength of the Ashanti region gives its people significant leverage in
shaping Ghana’s political direction. Candidates for national office recognize
the importance of securing Ashanti support, making the region a decisive factor
in elections.
Economic Strength
The Ashantis’ power is also deeply rooted in their
economic contributions to Ghana. Historically, the Ashanti Empire was one of
the largest gold producers in Africa, earning Ghana its nickname, “The Gold
Coast.” The Ashanti region remains one of the richest gold-mining areas in the
world today. Towns such as Obuasi are globally recognized for their gold mines,
particularly the Obuasi Gold Mine, which is one of the largest in Africa.
This mineral wealth has long provided the Ashanti region with economic
clout. Even during colonial times, the British focused heavily on exploiting
Ashanti gold. In contemporary Ghana, gold from Ashanti mines contributes
significantly to national revenue and foreign exchange earnings.
Beyond mining, the Ashanti region is also a major center for agriculture.
Cocoa, Ghana’s top export crop, is widely cultivated in the Ashanti and
surrounding regions. Thousands of Ashanti farmers contribute to making Ghana
one of the leading cocoa exporters in the world.
Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti region, is known as the “Garden
City of West Africa” and serves as a major commercial hub. The Kejetia
Market, one of the largest open-air markets in West Africa, symbolizes the
region’s economic vibrancy. Traders from all over Ghana and neighboring
countries flock to Kumasi, reinforcing its status as a center of commerce.
Cultural Influence
Culture is another dimension of Ashanti power. Their
traditions, festivals, and artistic expressions are integral to Ghana’s
national identity.
The Golden Stool
The Golden Stool remains the most powerful cultural and
spiritual symbol in Ghana. It is revered not only among the Ashantis but also
across the nation as a representation of unity, pride, and sovereignty.
Festivals
The Ashanti celebrate grand festivals such as Akwasidae and Adae Kese, which attract thousands of people from Ghana and the diaspora. These festivals showcase the richness of Ashanti culture drumming, dancing, kente cloth, and rituals while reinforcing their political and social authority.
Kente Cloth
The Ashantis are the originators of Kente,
Ghana’s most famous traditional cloth. Once reserved for royalty, Kente has
become a symbol of African heritage globally. It is worn during important
ceremonies, graduations, and even in the African diaspora as a mark of pride
and cultural continuity.
Language and Arts
The Ashantis speak Twi, one of the most widely spoken
languages in Ghana. Twi has become a lingua franca across much of southern
Ghana, further extending Ashanti cultural influence. Additionally, their art
forms wood carving, bead-making, and gold-smithing continue to shape Ghanaian
artistic expression.
Social Cohesion and Identity
One reason the Ashantis remain powerful is their
remarkable sense of unity. Ashanti identity is deeply tied to shared
traditions, allegiance to the Golden Stool, and respect for authority. Even in
the modern Ghanaian state, many Ashantis prioritize loyalty to their heritage.
This cohesion has allowed the Ashantis to mobilize
effectively in times of crisis. Whether during wars against the British or in
contemporary development projects, Ashantis often rally around their chiefs and
institutions. The unity strengthens their bargaining power in national affairs,
ensuring that the Ashanti voice is always heard.
Educational and
Infrastructural Development
The Ashanti region is home to some of Ghana’s leading
educational institutions, further cementing its role as a center of excellence.
The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and
Technology (KNUST), located in Kumasi, is one of Africa’s top
universities, producing skilled graduates in science, technology, engineering,
and medicine.
Infrastructure in the region also highlights Ashanti
power. Kumasi boasts a modern airport, bustling markets, and growing real
estate developments. The city continues to attract investors due to its
strategic location as a crossroads of trade within Ghana and across West
Africa.
Role in Modern Ghana
In modern Ghana, the Ashantis continue to play a pivotal
role. The Asantehene is often consulted in matters of governance and national
unity. His interventions in chieftaincy disputes, education reforms, and health
initiatives demonstrate the enduring relevance of Ashanti leadership.
Economically, the Ashanti region remains indispensable to
Ghana’s prosperity. Its gold, cocoa, and commercial activities are cornerstones
of the national economy. Politically, its voting bloc can determine the outcome
of elections. Culturally, its symbols and traditions continue to define
Ghanaian identity at home and abroad.
Criticisms and Challenges
While the Ashantis are powerful, their dominance has not
been without criticism. Some accuse them of being overly proud or ethnocentric,
sometimes leading to tensions with other ethnic groups. The perception of
Ashanti exceptionalism occasionally fuels rivalries in Ghana’s multi-ethnic
landscape.
Additionally, despite the region’s wealth in resources,
many communities still face poverty, unemployment, and inadequate
infrastructure. Critics argue that Ashanti power has not always translated into
equitable development for all its people.
Conclusion
The power of the Ashantis in Ghana is not accidental it
is the result of centuries of historical achievements, cultural resilience,
economic contributions, and political influence. From the establishment of the
Ashanti Empire to their modern role in shaping Ghana’s destiny, the Ashantis
have demonstrated remarkable adaptability and unity.
Their wealth in gold and cocoa, their stronghold in politics, their cultural
exports such as Kente, and the revered Golden Stool all contribute to their
enduring power. Even in a modern democratic state where all ethnic groups share
citizenship equally, the Ashantis continue to hold a unique place of influence
in Ghana.
As Ghana moves forward, the Ashantis’ ability to balance pride in their
heritage with inclusivity and national unity will remain central to their
continued power and relevance.