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Ankah Soma Asona Royal Foundation

The Bond of 1844

The Bond of 1844 played an instrumental role in Ghana gaining their independence.

How did it come to be?

Tensions between the Fantes and Asante Kingdom were high during pre-colonial Ghana, then known as Gold Coast. Many wars were incited between these two states, and their tumultuous relationship caused significant bloodshed.

Fantes amassed the most casualties, as the Asante Kingdom had highly-skilled warriors and resources, making them impregnable adversaries. In order to protect themselves, the Fantes signed an agreement with the British; the Bond of 1844. Our great grandfather Nana Kwasi Ankah was one of the chiefs that endorsed this contract. The Bond held a promise that the Gold Coast will become a self-governed nation after 100 years of colonial rule, implying that British rule would end on March 6th, 1944. However, this did not occur. It is believed that when the British reneged on their promise, those who had an educational background became infuriated. This anger led them to form the Nationalist Movement UGCC in 1947. Through much struggle, the British eventually fulfilled their promise of self-governance to the Gold Coast on March 6th 1957, thirteen years after the promised date. Although the Bond gave rise to colonial rule, it sculpted many of Ghana’s institutions and the judicial system that stands today.

Aburaman War

The Aburaman War was a conflict within the Fante state between the village of Odonase and the Aburaman traditional area. Odonase’s might was feeble against the strength of the Aburaman military, and it was soon understood that the only route to victory was not through weaponry, but by outsmarting their opponent. In this strenuous time, Nana Kwasi Ankah became a beacon of hope to the townspeople of Odonase. Using his intellect, he strategized a plan that would not only save his people but also allow them to gain an advantage over the Aburaman army. He suggested the use of plantain stalks as shields against the continuous gunfire directed at them. This ingenious idea resulted in the Aburaman military depleting their ammunition, allowing the Odonase warriors to overpower them and stand victorious. As a result, the paramount chief bestowed upon him the title of Tufehene. Although the reason for this battle is unknown, the enigmatic means to victory still echo throughout this town. In celebration of their win, the Okyire festival is held every year in New Odonase.

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Our mission

To put Abura Odonase and Fantse community on the history of Ghana’s struggle for Independence. To promote Abura Odonase as a tourist site due to its historical value in Fantseman and Ghana