Women of power

 

 

 

The Akan culture is one of the oldest and richest cultures in Africa and is one of the few matrilineal societies left on the continent.

Women have their place in the Akan culture and are also part of the Akan religion. For the Akan people, GOD is both male and female. Nyame is the male part of GOD, while Ngame is the female part of GOD. The Abosom (spirit) Asase Ye Duru, the divinity of Mother Earth, represents the importance of nature in human life.

Akan women occupy predominant positions in society. They are at the centre of the economy and also play a political role. In the Akan state, the Asantehene (the King) rules together with the Asantehema (the Queen Mother). She is one of the most powerful personalities in the Akan political hierarchy as she chooses the next Asantehene, the royal throne being passed down through the mother’s line. The Asantehema advises the Asantehene and ensures that the women’s positions on an issue are always highlighted and considered in the decision-making process. Akan women have political obligations, as they also play a role in the legislative and judicial processes. 

Akan women were also warriors and participated in military campaigns against the British colonialists. Queen Mother Yaa Asantewaa led the Ashanti Empire in their final battle against the British (the War of the Golden Stool) in 1900. She successfully resisted the British onslaught for several months before being captured and exiled to the Seychelles. 

Aflé Bijoux is proudly inspired by the Akan culture, which has always venerated women. Akan women are independent, strong and powerful, and Aflé Bijoux articulates this message by presenting unique creations that foster self-confidence. 

Discover the collections here.