Stories and facts

Nananom Mpow is a sacred grove deeply rooted in the history and spirituality of the Fante people in Ghana. It is believed to be the burial site of the legendary Fante founders Oburumankoma, Odapagyan, and Oson.

Once a powerful religious and political center, the grove was located near Mankessim and the town of Obidan, surrounded by rich forest and sacred ponds.

It was home to oracles that guided decisions, received sacrifices, and served as spiritual courts.

By the eighteenth century, European accounts described Nananom Mpow as one of the most important shrines along the Gold Coast.

Its influence grew especially during the shift from gold to slave trading, when the region faced rising warfare and sought spiritual protection.

The grove became central to Fante resistance and decision-making in both local and colonial matters.

In the early 1800s, tensions began to rise between traditional religion and Christianity. A farmer named Akweesi, accused of witchcraft by the grove’s oracle, left his community and established the nearby settlement of Obidan.

He and his followers later converted to Christianity, which led to conflict with traditional leaders. In 1851, Chief Nana Edu of Mankessim attacked Obidan during a church service, destroying the village and arresting many residents.

The British colonial authorities stepped in, fined the chief, and ordered the release of the prisoners.

Akweesi returned under British protection and began clearing the sacred grove, an act supported by Chief Edu who also converted to Christianity.

By the twenty-first century, the once-powerful Nananom Mpow had faded from public attention, although there have been suggestions to restore it as a cultural and historical site.

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