In a vibrant display of cultural unity and ancestral remembrance, the Bortianor/ Weija Bissa palace rolled out the red carpet to welcome 15 Afro-Americans of Bissa descent who visited the Weste African country on a profound journey to connect with their roots.
The durbar, held by the Bissa Chief Suallah Saeed Sare, was a radiant spectacle that brought together the local community and the visiting Bissa descendants, who wanted to reconnect with history.
Dressed in vibrant traditional Bissa adornment, the Afro-Americans were embraced by the warmth and hospitality of their Ghanaian Bissa host, with the aim of fostering cultural exchange and honoring the rich heritage of the Bissa people.
The event, imbued with elegance and reverence, served as a testament to the power of unity and the significance of preserving one’s ancestry. Chiefs and elders adorned in regal attire presided over the ceremony, symbolizing their role as custodians of tradition.
Set against the backdrop of the Palace’s regal interiors, adorned with intricate decorations that paid homage to Bissa culture, the event was a fusion of history and modernity that created an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
The Durba, deeply rooted in the Bissa tradition, showcased a vibrant display of Culture. It included performances by the renowned Bissa dancing group from Obuasi, who skillfully showcased the unique rhythms, melodies, and traditional movements of the culture. Attendees were captivated by the intricate footwork, vibrant costumes, and soul-stirring music, illustrating the deep emotions and traditions intrinsic to the Bissa people.
Sare Palace, known for hosting both social and cultural events, reiterated its commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and celebrating cultural diversity. By providing a platform for the commemoration of ancestral roots and cultural heritage.
“Today we hosted our brothers and sisters from the diaspora who are here to create meaningful experiences that shape individual identities and strengthen communal bonds,” Kir Suallah Saeed Sare told Bissanewsonline.com.
“It was a very elating honour to have them express interest in uncovering connections to specific African regions or ethnic groups, of which the great Bissa is one. This knowledge can help foster a sense of identity, pride, and cultural connection.
“Seeking to reconnect with their roots, they immersed themselves in the vibrant culture and traditions of the Bissa people, and we gladly took them through a memorable experience. It brought forth a deeper understanding of the lost civilization and its profound impact on the Bissa people, including many other Mande tribes.
“This represents part of our contribution to building a stronger brand that centuries have known us for.”
The occasion provided an opportunity for the visiting Bissa descendants to learn about their ancestral customs, beliefs, and traditions. Local storytellers narrated captivating tales of Bissa history, ensuring the passing down of their rich cultural tapestry to future generations.
In an extraordinary journey of self-discovery, the group of 15 Afro-Americans embarked on a transformative adventure inspired by their ancestry test results in the United States.
They set out to visit the Bissa ethnic group in West Africa, and the New Weija / Bortiano Palace became the chosen venue to host the memorable event.
As the group delved further into the history of the Bissas, they learned about their remarkable migration from the old Ghanaian empire to their present settlements across parts of Ghana, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, and Togo.
They were given a detailed account of the traditional Bissa way of farming and the notable crops Bissas are known for harvesting. They were also decorated with the traditional Bissa wear and ornamented with the popular groundnut jewellery that added to the electrifying scenes at the palace.
The 15 honoured guests, hailing from various parts of the United States, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with their ancestral heritage. For many, this event marked a pivotal moment in their lives, as they were able to explore and embrace the rich tapestry of their Bissa roots.
They now join the list of some four Afro-Americans, who, earlier in 2021, took the ancestry test that linked them to the Bissa ethnic group and were eventually accepted into the Bissa Development Association (BDA).
During the event on Wednesday, July 26, participants had the chance to engage in dialogue and exchange stories, forging connections that transcended borders and generations. The gathering served as a powerful reminder of the shared history and resilience that unite individuals from diverse backgrounds.
The special Durba ceremony organized by the Palace stands as a testament to the enduring power of culture, lineage, and connection. Through this event, 15 Afro-Americans of Bissa descent were able to embrace their heritage, sparking a renewed sense of pride and igniting a greater understanding of their roots.
It encapsulated the spirit of unity, healing, and reconciliation, showcasing Ghana’s commitment to fostering connections with the African diaspora.
For Afro-Americans, ancestry tests can be particularly meaningful due to the complex history of the African diaspora. Many Afro-Americans are descendants of enslaved Africans brought to the Americas, making it challenging to trace their exact origins. Ancestry tests can help provide a glimpse into their ancestral past, offering potential clues about where their ancestors may have lived before being forcibly brought to the New World.
Many Afro-Americans have taken their ancestry tests, seeking to gain a deeper understanding of their ancestral roots and heritage. These tests typically involve analysing DNA from saliva samples to provide insights into a person’s genetic makeup and ancestral origins.
With the Bissas as their eloquent guides, the visitors learned that the ancient civilization thrived on farming practises that showcased their profound understanding and harmonious relationship with the natural environment. The Bissas’ sophisticated knowledge of agriculture not only sustained their civilization but also enabled them to cultivate an impressive array of farm products.
The journey offered an opportunity for mutual exchange, learning, and appreciation. Deeply moved by their shared heritage, the Afro-Americans formed lasting connections with the Bissa community in Ghana, fostering a bond that bridges continents and enriches lives.
The visitors expressed their profound gratitude to the palace for the wonderful reception, saying it exemplifies the power of cultural exchange and how it enriches the understanding of human history, not hiding their pride in tracing their ancestry to the great Bissa ethnic group.
They said the refreshing conversations have not only unveiled the secrets of an ancient civilization but have also sparked renewed interest in exploring the history of their ancestors more than 400 years after being taken away from Africa as slaves.
To them, their expectation to experience the Bissa culture and history and get a little closer to their roots has been achieved.
They also promised to continue visiting Ghana periodically to connect with the newly met kinsmen and women in the Bissa fraternity.
As the ceremony concluded with a collective dance of joy, it was evident that bonds were forged, not just between the Afro-Americans and their Bissa heritage, but between two communities that had discovered a shared journey of healing and growth.
As Ghana continues to welcome more people from the African diaspora, the durbar stands as a memorable testament to the power of ancestry, reminding us all of the importance of embracing diversity, celebrating cultural heritage, and building bridges that span across continents and generations.
