Stories and facts
The Nzema are an ethnic group numbering about 328,700 individuals, with 262,000 residing in southwestern Ghana and 66,700 in the southeast of Côte d'Ivoire.
In Ghana, the Nzema region is divided into three electoral districts: Nzema East Municipal, also known as Evalue Gwira; Ellembele; and Nzema West, also known as Jomoro. The Nzima or Appolo language is widely spoken in these areas.
Primarily, the Nzema people are farmers. They follow a traditional calendar where days are ordered in cycles of seven within a three-week cycle. The Nzema society is matrilineal, meaning descent and property are passed through maternal lines. One of the most significant cultural events for the Nzema is the annual Kundum Festival, celebrated throughout the Ahanta and Nzema regions.
The festival's timing is aligned with the harvest period, with each local community determining its start. Beginning in the easternmost part of Ahanta, the festival moves southwestward in tandem with the harvest. The Kundum Festival, which lasts four weeks, features ritual drumming, singing, and dancing, believed to expel devils and protect the community's good fortune.
A notable aspect of the festival is the performance of satirical avudewene songs by young men, adding a unique and lively element to the celebrations.
The history of Nzema dates back to the 16th century when it was founded by the Nzema people, an ethnic group that has inhabited the area for centuries. The region was a major center of trade and commerce, attracting merchants from across West Africa to its bustling markets.
Over the years, Nzema has developed a rich and diverse cultural heritage, known for its traditional dances, music, and festivals, including the Kundum Festival. Nzema is not a single town but a collection of several towns and villages in the Western Region of Ghana. Some of the most well-known towns in Nzema include Axim, Half Assini, Beyin, Nzulezu, and Esiama. The region is divided into two districts: Nzema East Municipal District and Ellembelle District.
The majority of Nzema's residents belong to the Nzema ethnic group, renowned for their unique cultural traditions, including music, dance, and storytelling. The town is also home to other ethnic groups, such as the Akan, Ewe, and Fante.
Christianity is the dominant religion in Nzema, with most residents belonging to various Christian denominations, including Catholic, Methodist, Presbyterian, and Pentecostal churches. Islam and traditional African religions are also practiced in the town. Nzema's economy is primarily based on fishing, agriculture, and small-scale businesses.
The town's coastal location supports a rich fishing heritage, with many residents engaged in fishing as their primary livelihood. Agriculture is also significant, with farmers cultivating crops such as cassava, yam, maize, and cocoa. Small-scale businesses, including retail stores, restaurants, and artisanal crafts, also contribute to the local economy.
Nzema has several primary and secondary schools serving the educational needs of its residents. Notable schools include Axim Girls Senior High School, Half Assini Senior High School, and Adiembra Senior High School.
While the exact number of schools is not readily available, these institutions play a crucial role in the region's education system. Nzema is located along the coast of the Gulf of Guinea, with a diverse geography that includes a range of ecosystems and landforms.
The Nzema culture is characterized by a deep sense of community, respect for elders, and a strong connection to nature. These cultural values are reflected in their vibrant festivals, traditional practices, and communal way of life.
