By Gloria Anderson
In a small but culturally rich town in the Volta Region of Ghana, the people of Tack’s Corner continue to uphold the traditions of their ancestors with unwavering commitment. The town, founded by Torgbui Mileba, a skilled blacksmith and hunter, has become a stronghold of Ewe heritage, where traditional rites, economic activities, and communal values remain deeply ingrained in daily life.
The recent passing of a prominent daughter, Christine Adzoyovi Azalekor, provided a rare opportunity for the world to witness the depth of Tack’s Corner’s cultural traditions. The funeral, beyond its solemnity, became a stage for showcasing ancestral rites, age-old customs, and the economic resilience of the people. The Dufia (chief) of Tack’s Corner, Torgbui Mileba III, led the proceedings, offering insights into the town’s history and cultural values.
Tack’s Corner traces its roots to Torgbui Mileba, a revered blacksmith and hunter who laid the foundation for the town. His legacy continues through the traditional leadership structure, where cultural custodians ensure that his vision endures.
One such figure is Zigbuitor Gbloenado Dzi Mileba, who serves as the acting steward of the community when the chief is unavailable. Speaking on the significance of traditional governance, he said, “The stool is not just a seat of authority; it represents our history, our spirit, and our future. When the chief is absent, I step in to uphold the customs and ensure the smooth running of our affairs.”
The sacred nature of the stool is deeply respected, and every leader must perform specific rites to affirm their connection to the ancestors before assuming their role.
The highlight of the funeral was the performance of the ‘Dido’ rites, a sacred ritual exclusively conducted when a great person passes away. Unlike ordinary funerals, these rites signify the transition of an influential figure into the ancestral realm.
Elder Eben Woanyo Mileba, an uncle to the chief, elaborated on the practice, stating, “Not everyone is accorded this honour. ‘Dido’ is a passage rite for those who have left an indelible mark on our town. It is believed that without these rites, the soul may not find peace.”
The ceremony was marked by symbolic gestures, including libations, drumming, and oral narrations of the deceased’s life and contributions. The drumming was particularly striking, as it served as a form of communication with the ancestors.
Following the Dido rites, the town erupted into ‘Agbadza,’ the traditional Ewe dance known for its energetic movements and deep cultural significance. Men and women, adorned in colorful kente, moved rhythmically to the pulsating beats of the drums.
One of the performers explained, “Agbadza is not just a dance; it is how we tell our history, celebrate our resilience, and commune with our ancestors. Every step and movement has meaning.”
Another significant aspect of the funeral was the ‘Nsawa’ competition. Contrary to common misconceptions, Nsawa is not a dance contest but a money challenge between men and women. Participants display their financial strength by contributing money publicly, and at the end of the event, the total amount is announced, with one group declared the winner.
Elder Eben Woanyo Mileba explained, “This practice is a demonstration of communal support. It is not about individual wealth but about how we, as a people, can come together to assist one another, especially during critical moments like funerals.”
The competition was met with enthusiasm, as people joyfully contributed to honor the deceased and support the bereaved family.
Beyond its cultural heritage, Tack’s Corner thrives on salt mining and coconut farming, which serve as the backbone of its economy. The chief, Torgbui Mileba III, explained, “For us, salt is our gold, and coconut is our cocoa. These resources sustain us, provide employment, and connect us to the larger market.”
A visit to the town’s salt mining site revealed the laborious but rewarding process of extracting the mineral. Workers described the intricate steps involved, from the collection of seawater to the drying and crystallization stages. However, they also expressed concerns about the challenges they face.
One salt harvester noted, “The price of a blue sack of salt is GH¢40, but market access remains a challenge. Some buyers come and take the salt immediately, while others purchase and leave it here until they are ready to transport it. We need better infrastructure to expand this trade.”
Market women echoed these sentiments, highlighting poor road networks as a major obstacle. “Our roads are bad, and during the rainy season, it is almost impossible to transport our goods. If the government could invest in our infrastructure, our businesses would thrive,” a trader lamented.
Despite these challenges, the town remains resourceful, using every gathering, whether a funeral, festival, or ceremony, as an opportunity for trade.
Respect and order are integral to Tack’s Corner’s culture. Any time a visiting chief arrives, they are welcomed with a vibrant display of Agbadza. However, individuals must seek permission before dancing in front of the chief, reinforcing the town’s strong sense of hierarchy and respect.
Hospitality is also deeply embedded in the community’s values. A unique tradition in Tack’s Corner is the offering of coconuts to visitors as a symbol of welcome. Since nearly every household owns a coconut tree, it has become a cultural gesture to refresh guests upon arrival.
As the funeral rites continued, it became evident that Tack’s Corner remains committed to preserving its heritage. The town’s small size, comprising buildings that are mostly under a century old, has not deterred its people from safeguarding their traditions.
The journey to the tomb of Torgbui Kofi Azalekor, the town’s founder, was a reflective moment, offering a glimpse into the legacy he left behind. His contributions as a blacksmith and hunter laid the foundation for a resilient and culturally rich community.
Elder Eben Woanyo Mileba concluded, “Our traditions define us. They remind us of where we come from and guide us towards where we are going. No matter how modern the world becomes, we will continue to honor our roots.”
As the drums of Agbadza echoed into the night and the market women busily sold their goods, Tack’s Corner stood as a testament to the enduring strength of Ewe culture. Through their rituals, economic activities, and unwavering community spirit, the people of Tack’s Corner have ensured that their heritage will not only be preserved but also celebrated for generations to come.
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