Discover Twi

Twi is a dialect of the Akan people. It is a Central Tano language from the Niger-Congo language family.  Twi is spoken by over 9 million people in Ghana, Cote d'Ivoire and Togo.  

Main Communities

Kumasi, Obuasi, Agona

Naming Convention

In Akan culture, you are given a name based on the day of the week that you were born and if you were born as a male or female.

  • Monday - Kwadwo(m), Adwoa (f)
  • Tuesday - Kwabena(m), Abena (f)
  • Wednesday - Kwaku(m), Akua (f)
  • Thursday - Yaw(m), Yaa (f)
  • Friday - Kofi (m), Afua (f)
  • Saturday - Kwame (m), Ama (f)
  • Sunday - Kwasi(m), Akosua(f)

Staple Food

Eto - also known as Oto. It is made of mashed yams or sweet plantains and served with hard boiled egg and avocado pear. The egg is believed to give fertility.

Culture and Traditions

Kente Cloth - a vibrant fabric that is worn on special occasions. It is hand woven and includes intricate designs. Each design holds a special meaning. Traditional colors on the Kente are red, yellow, green, black, gold, and blue.

Adinkra - a set of symbols, each carrying specific meanings related to cultural beliefs and wisdom. These symbols are found on fabrics, pottery, jewelry, and walls. The most common Adinkra symbol is GYE NYAME which means "Except God" and represents their belief in the supremacy of God.

Notable figures:

Yaa Asantewaa - Queen. She is best known for her leadership in the War of the Golden Stool and her stance against British colonialism.

Kofi Annan - politician. He served as the seventh Secretary General of the United Nations (1997 - 2006). He is best known for his efforts to promote global peace and development during his tenure from 1997 to 2006 and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II - king. He is the current Asantehene (king) of the Ashanti people. He is known for his efforts to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the Ashanti Kingdom. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has been actively involved in initiatives aimed at promoting education, healthcare, and economic development in Ashanti and beyond.

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