Adangbe

Adangbe refers to a group of closely related ethnic groups primarily residing in southeastern Ghana and southwestern Togo. These groups share a common language, Adangbe, which belongs to the Kwa branch of the Niger-Congo language family. Historically, the Adangbe people are believed to have migrated from the east, with their origins often linked to the ancient kingdom of Benin. They are known for their rich cultural heritage, which includes distinct traditions in music, dance, and festivals. Prominent among these is the Homowo festival, celebrated by the Ga people, one of the major Adangbe subgroups, to commemorate a famine that was overcome by a bountiful harvest. Other significant Adangbe groups include the Krobo, Ada, Shai, and Osudoku. Their traditional economies were largely based on agriculture, fishing, and trade. In contemporary times, Adangbe communities are involved in a wide range of professions, while still maintaining many of their ancestral customs and social structures. The Adangbe language continues to be spoken, though influences from English and French, the colonial languages of Ghana and Togo respectively, are present. Understanding Adangbe culture provides insight into the diverse ethnic landscape of West Africa.