One in a Trilogy: The Enigmatic Power of Water in African Ecology

• In Event: African Spiritualities across waters

Description for Program

Water is a quintessential part of the trilogy – sky, land, water – that has guided life in Africa since creation. Rivers, lakes, lagoons, and seas are undoubtedly part of what is classified in the trilogy as water. Almost all the rivers in Ghana (and in other parts of Africa), are seen as venerated spaces where aquatic spirits reside. Water from these sacred spaces is used for different milestone purposes and brings with it, a sense of belonging and kinship. For centuries, the fear of ‘muddying up’ these waters and incurring the wrath of the spirits that reside within them, has helped the country in achieving a sustainable life. Now, there is an enormous struggle to keep these rivers safe from illegal mining activities. The main objective of this submission is to explore the ineffable power attributed to water in some indigenous Ghanaian cultures. This examination is done based on the importance attributed to water and its locus in African ecology. The submission analyzes the customs and belief systems surrounding aquatic genies and river spirits and the role they play in African culture. The philosophies that exist in the belief systems and customs – as pivotal phenomena guarding everyday life – are also examined from traditional and contemporary perspectives.

Author

• Alice Korkor Ebeheakey