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Symbols play a crucial role in nonverbal communication across cultures, as they convey meaning and express identity, values, and traditions. In the Ga-Dangbe culture in Ghana, many symbols illustrate Ga proverbs and colourful expressions. This ethnic group traces its roots back to ancient Egypt, where symbols and diagrams were utilized to tell stories and document history, much like holographs. Dr. Richard Afutu Kotei, in a lecture organized by the Institute of African Studies, presented his various designs of Ga-Dangbe symbols along with their meanings in the context of Ga culture.
The term "Ga 'Samai'" is derived from "Sama," which means a design, symbol, or mark in the Ga parlance. Ga 'Samai' represents symbols that narrate the story of the Ga-Damgbe people, encompassing their history and proverbs. Dr. Richard Afutu Kotei has expressed that his artistic and design sensibilities were significantly influenced by his father, Mr. Amon Kotei, the designer of the Ghana Coat of Arms.
Dr. Kotei noted, “My father taught me the importance of listening when people speak. I also developed an awareness of shapes and colours, and how words can be creatively used to convey meaning. During meetings, I pay close attention and use these words to create symbols that reflect the space and time within Ga-Dangbe culture.” He emphasized that these symbols are intended to provoke thought, create imagery, and preserve the history of the Ga-Dangbe people.
Dr. Richard Afutu Kotei believes that representing words with symbols plays a crucial role in preserving language, culture, and storytelling. He said, “These symbols carry history and messages, and when combined, they tell complete stories.” Dr. Afutu Kotei has published two books that feature over 200 unique Ga symbols, each carefully designed to align with the established symbols of Ga-Dangbe culture. Many of his designs hold both physical and spiritual meanings and fit into specific contexts within Ga-Dangbe culture. While some symbols reflect cultural elements, others convey statements made by the Ga-Dangbe people. Some of his designs are explained below.
The overall appearance of this symbol resembles a tiger with claws. This symbol signifies that a tiger's claws remain sharp regardless of its age. The proverb conveyed by this symbol suggests that a person's innate value does not diminish with age. Individuals who are respected or feared should always be treated with the same regard and not underestimated simply because they are older.
This symbol in the shape of a circle means “we are unbreakable when united”. According to Dr. Kotei, the design was inspired by a traditional ritual among the elders of La, his hometown. Before the Homowo festival celebration, the elders of La gather in a circle to pray for blessings, peace, and tranquillity. The proverb illustrated in this design is commonly used during outdooring and sanctification ceremonies among the Ga-Dangbe people.
This design reflects the Ga-Dangbe people's understanding of the cunning nature of white people from the era of colonialism to the present day. In this design, the white man is depicted as a welder who intentionally shapes wisdom or information to suit his preferred narrative. The Ga-Dangbe people include a proverb in this design to caution their members when dealing with such deceitful individuals.
This design explores the themes of the purpose of life and the inevitability of death. As one enters the “Awudome” cemetery in Accra, there is an inscription that reads, "We were like you." When you leave, another inscription states, "You will be like us."
This design is known as "Broken but not fallen apart." It conveys hope during difficult times.
The “Omanye” symbol represents blessings. On the eighth day after a child's birth, both sides of the family gather for the child's naming and sanctification ceremony. The elders begin by inviting the Spirit known as “Omanye” into the home. This signifies that all the good things the family desires are welcomed into their lives.
This design is a prayer for family growth, stating, “Our family should grow and multiply.” The image depicts the increase of brooms and stools, from just a broom and a stool symbolizing increased blessings for the family.
This design serves as a prayer: “When we dig deep, may we find water. May our efforts be blessed, rewarded, and enjoyed in the fruits of our labour.”
This symbol represents the proverb: "What you learn is what you know." It emphasizes that no child is born with negative behaviours or mindsets, but what they learn on earth makes them who they are. This symbol serves as a reminder to parents to instil good values in their children, as what we teach our children shapes their understanding of the world.
Ga Wisdom Symbols (Ga Samai) express intricate ideas and emotions in the Ga tradition. They represent the cultural heritage and history of the Ga-Dangbe people, adding depth and nuance to verbal communication among the Ga community.
