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This column is dedicated to the needs of individuals in gaining balance and harmony
in their lives. As Akans, we know that our help comes from Onyame (Almighty God),
the Abosom and the Nsamanfo. We believe that Onyame is The Supreme Being, creator
of all things, and his word is absolute; the Abosom (lessor gods) were created
by Onyame to act on his behalf and were given certain powers to carry out that
mission; the Nsamanfo (ancestors) are the custodians of the laws, customs and
traditions of Akan society, are concerned about our well-being, and are in close
contact with Onyame whose favor they enjoy in a special way. (For more information,
visit the Spirituality page). Therefore, every article that appears on this page
is viewed and applied within that belief system. I will write some of the articles
and some will come from articles that I have read which I feel may be beneficial
to you.
NANA SPEAKS…2007 is AFSANI's 10th Anniversary!
Greetings!
2007 is AFSANI's 10th Anniversary!
We give honor and all praises to Odomonkama, Nana Asuo Gyebi who
is our Patron Deity, and all the Abosom who strongly support us.
We also honor our Ancestors -- Nana Yao Opare Dinizulu, Nana Okomfohema
Akua Oparebea, Nana Akua Momma Burks, and all the ancestors of the
Clans represented in the membership of AFSANI. It is through them
that we are able to successfully continue this important journey.
In the arena of organizational development, it is said that if
you are able to complete 10 years then you are well on your way
to becoming a stable and viable organization. AFSANI has met that
criterion. We do believe that through the same Abosom and Nsamanfo
who helped us continue as we faced growing pains and successes,
will lead the way for us to become an institution in the Akan community.
We are very grateful for the accomplishments that we have realized
during the past 10 years. We have consistently celebrated the Akan
holy days; held annual celebrations for Nana Asuo Gyebi, Nana Esi
Ketewaa and Nana Tegare; conducted rites of passage ceremonies;
presented Akan Akom Tradition workshops and seminars in DC and out
of town; published 2 books; and, conducted community programs to
empower our people. Through the grace of the Almighty, we have moved
to a larger space and renovated it to our own specifications. We
have trained and graduated 7 Akomfo in the Akan Akom Tradition.
We also have gained new members, graduated an Obrafo and are training
other individuals for other Shrine positions. During this time,
we also sponsored six (6) educational tours to Ghana.
AFSANI became an international organization during this time period.
In 2001, we inherited an ancient Shrine in the Akwapim area of Ghana.
The Osofo Nana Ama Odi, who made her transition four months later,
entrusted this Shrine in my care. In 2006, the Royal Ekona Clan
Abusia Shrine was entrusted to our care. This was following the
sudden transition of the former Bosomfo. It is the Shrine of my
Queenmother predecessor, Nana Efua Kyerewaa I. In addition, the
esteemed families of both Shrines have added the name Asomdwee Fie
(AFSANI) to the original names.
Nananom continues to provide us with all of our needs to help us
to promote our Akan culture and spirituality. We believe that following
the inherent principles, values and rules of conduct established
by our ancient ancestors will aid in the healing and transformation
of the mind, body and spirit of ourselves, families and community.
You, too, can successfully fulfill your spiritual path, your destiny,
and your dreams. The simple formula is complete trust and confidence
in the power of Almighty God, the Abosom and Nsamanfo. Recognize
and celebrate the rituals, ceremonies and observances that provide
the direction, courage and strength that we need to continue on
our individual and collective paths.
We want to acknowledge all those who have supported us through
prayer, donations, attending our events, and the many other ways
of support. We pray that you receive enormous blessings for the
encouragement that you have given us during the past 10 years. We
look forward to continued positive relationships and collaborations
with other Shrine Houses and individuals who are on the same path.
To all the believers and supporters, again I say: Medase Pii! Thank
you so much!
Peace and Blessings,
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