Dr Richard Afutu Kotei: Reviving Ga Samai, a Rich Symbolic Tradition
The Ga people, much like the Akan people with their Adinkra symbols, also have a unique and rich symbolic tradition known as Ga Samai. This tradition has been passed down through generations, but one man is taking it to new heights and giving it a fresh expression — Dr Richard Afutu Kotei, son of the late Amon Kotei, the designer of Ghana’s Coat of Arms.
Artistry seems to run in the Kotei family, as Dr Kotei shared in an interview with The Mirror. He explained that his growing collection of symbols, both classic Ga Samai and new creations, are original artistic expressions of proverbs, wisdom sayings, and colorful word statements of the GaDangme people, presented in communicative graphic forms. These symbols serve as visual representations of ideas that might otherwise be abstract, providing easy understanding and promoting appropriate usage.
Driven by a deep passion for Ghanaian cultures and traditions, especially those of the GaDangme ethnic group to which he belongs, Dr Kotei is on a mission to ensure that Ga Samai is not overlooked in national cultural discourse. He believes that these symbols, which are Ga wisdom statements presented as dynamic symbols, offer a window into the rich culture of the GaDangme people.
While the exact origins of Ga Samai are difficult to pinpoint, Dr Kotei suggests that they may have roots dating back to ancient Egypt, aligning with claims that the GaDangme people trace their ancestry to that region. He also points to traditional canoe art as a possible source of inspiration for these symbols, as the artistic inscriptions on the canoes used by fisherfolk for identification and communication may hold clues to the history and evolution of Ga Samai.
Despite a successful career in science as a clinical pharmacist, Dr Kotei never lost his passion for the arts. Like his father, he is deeply involved in drawing, painting, and photography, having held art exhibitions in the USA. Now, through his revival and expansion of Ga Samai, he is not only honoring his heritage but also inspiring a new generation to rediscover and celebrate the depth and beauty of GaDangme culture.
Dr Richard Afutu Kotei’s dedication to preserving and expanding Ga Samai is a testament to his cultural pride and personal conviction. His work serves as a bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that the vibrant traditions of the GaDangme people continue to thrive and inspire future generations.
For more information on Dr Kotei’s work and upcoming projects, you can reach out to him at [email protected].
