Understanding Indigenous Philanthropy in Ghana from an Akan Perspective

Abstract

This thesis aims to gain in-depth understanding of indigenous philanthropy in Ghana, with a particular focus on the Akan and contributes to filling the existing knowledge gap of a dearth of information on indigenous philanthropy in Ghana. It examines the conceptualisation of Akan philanthropy, explores the meaning, nature and practice of Akan philanthropy and identifies potential changes that may have occurred over time as well as the underlying reasons behind such shifts. Indigenous methodologies and methods such as ethnophilosophy and sagacity, as well as a decolonial approach informs the research design. The findings suggest that Akan philanthropy is ‘adɔyɛ’ - the reciprocal and morally obligatory demonstration of love by every member of a community (individually and collectively) to other members of the community. Community here includes the members' relations (physical and spiritual) . This demonstration of love is through that members' way of life, be-ing and consequent actions and is for the ultimate benefit of the community. Akan philanthropy is anchored in Akan humanism values. It is a life- long cyclical practice that includes all irrespective of wealth and is midwifed by traditional institutions like family, the community and traditional leadership. Although, affected by colonialism, Akan philanthropy has adapted to the existing era and is still a key source of community sustenance and wellbeing. The hegemony of Western philanthropy has relegated it to the background hence the need to decolonise philanthropy. This is done through conceptualising philanthropy through indigenous knowledge systems like that of the Akan and foregrounding indigenous philanthropy in Africa.