Paramount Tugbi

As a part of our formal welcome to Dzelukope we attended a ceremony at the Paramount Chief’s (or Tugbi’s). We gave formal introductions and our group brought the chief the traditional Schnapps Gin (that wasn’t sarcastic! You actually bring Schnapps). Then the chiefs gave a sacrifice for our group. Dzelukope is a mostly Christian community, but the Indigenous belief systems remains strongly incorporated into the Christian religion. This sacrifice was “to God Almighty, through the ancestors” and it was of water and Gin.

sacrifice to the ancestors through the eyes of the next generation

traditional Ghanain dancing. (working on having the photo posting the right way!)

Following this there was a local dance group that performed and taught us traditional dances. The traditional dance is difficult, as it involves an intense shoulder thrusting, much like how a chicken moves, and requires you to keep your feet moving. It was entertaining to dance along, although I must admit, I felt like my lack of rhythm was more evident than it ever is.

Part way through the afternoon I met a little girl who was not a part of the dance group, but clearly wanted to be. She stood by the side, and watched intently as the other girls ‘strutted’ across the dance floor. When I started dancing with her we hit off, and for the rest of the afternoon she wasn’t far from me. It wasn’t long until we were in the middle of the dance floor (or sand pit), thrusting our shoulders around until we were red in the face. If nothing else, I danced with someone who’s grooving ability was on par with my own, which happens rarely and the opportunity should be taken every time it does.

The dance party at the Paramount Chief’s was a blast. What a welcome to the community of Dzelukope!