🌍 "NSUO NYA "
– A Theatre-for-Development Call to Action in Asamang Tamfoe
“Finding Water” | Protecting Our Lands, Saving Our Waters, Promoting Agriculture
🧭Project Motivation
Our environment continues to face critical threats - from deforestation to pollution and, most alarmingly, illegal mining (galamsey). Rivers and lakes that once sustained entire communities are now poisoned with mercury and chemicals, endangering both aquatic life and human health. This devastation is deeply felt across Ghana’s Eastern, Western, and Ashanti Regions.
As livelihoods decline and farmlands suffer, "Nsuo Nya" ...meaning “Finding Water” in Akan, was conceived as a creative, community-based response. The project sought to unite culture, consciousness, and collective action through a Theatre-for-Development (TFD) outreach program, inspiring people to protect natural resources and rekindle the spirit of sustainable agriculture.
Beyond its literal meaning, Nsuo Nya symbolized the search for life, balance, and renewal; for as we know, water is life and spirit.
🎭Project Overview
Initiated in response to a heartfelt call from the people of Asamang Tamfoe, led by Nkosuo Hemaa Nana Ama Benpoma and endorsed by the local chiefs and traditional council, ZAAFI ARTS implemented this site-specific TFD project under our Schools and Community Outreach Program (@FOOTING).
Through storytelling, dance-theatre, and participatory workshops, the initiative:
Exposed the environmental and health dangers of illegal mining
Highlighted links between water pollution, land degradation, and climate change
Encouraged sustainable agriculture as a path to resilience and economic growth
Inspired young people to become eco-advocates and agricultural champions
📅 Activities & Implementation
Beginning in June 2025, the ZAAFI ARTS team ... Joined by Nkosuo Hemaa visiting from Canada, engaged schools and community groups in Asamang Tamfoe through a series of creative and educational activities:
✅ Interactive Art & Environmental Workshops Focused on water protection, responsible mining, waste management, and sustainable farming practices.
✅ Cultural Celebrations & Clean-Up Exercises Traditional performances such as Adowa and Jama were used as joyful tools for mobilizing community participation and unity.
✅ Agriculture Education & Hands-on Activities From farming demonstrations to school garden creation, these sessions reignited youth interest in agriculture as a sustainable livelihood.
✅ Formation of Youth Environmental Clubs Young participants formed eco-clubs and pledged to promote environmental stewardship in their schools and homes.
🌟 Main Event – August 16th, 2025
The project culminated in a vibrant Traditional Durbar attended by chiefs, elders, dignitaries, and community members. Highlights included:
🎙️ A Griot storytelling performance on environmental consciousness
💃🏾 Dance and theatre presentations by local schools and cultural troupes
🌱 A Tree Planting Ceremony symbolizing renewal and collective responsibility
🎁 Community donations to support schools and aspiring young farmers
💬 Reflections & Continuing Impact
Though the Asamang Tamfoe phase has concluded, the spirit of Nsuo Nya continues to flow. The project not only created awareness but also sparked a growing local commitment to protecting the environment, reviving agriculture, and nurturing youth leadership.
ZAAFI ARTS remains dedicated to expanding this mission; reaching more schools and communities across Ghana, using art as a tool for environmental advocacy and community development.
... Let’s save our waters, restore our lands, and empower our youth.
Oseeey Ashanti! Oseeey Ghana Nation! ✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾
📸 Follow Our Journey:
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