A Serendipitous Production

I see Anokye’s Sword as an African story with something to teach today’s world. Anokye and Tutu grew up at a time when people’s identities was fixed by blood and custom and the society was fractured, but they realised the only way to improve their fortunes and that of generations to come was to re-create themselves forget their differences and unite with a common purpose. They developed a confederation that ignored peoples pasts and clans. Instead it was about whom they wanted to be and the future they wanted. I think this is a powerful concept. In a world where people are so divided by ethnicity, religion and culture, we need to teach our children that you can recreate yourself based on your goals and that no one should be shackled by their past.

Today the culture they created is the most identified as authentically African. The Asante are the most written about people in sub-Saharan Africa. Kenti cloth has even been used by Coca Cola in an advert. Kenti cloth is used across the Diaspora to represent quintessential African-ness. Adinkra symbols are used by businesses and artists throughout the world. 

It was a joy for me when I realised that my identity as an Asante was created less than 400 years ago, there is a freedom in that knowledge. I hope that audiences will take on board the idea that through unity and strength of purpose we can change ourselves and the world.

 Akua Ofosuhene

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