A few days ago, I came across a Facebook post that left many of us reflecting on our identity. A South African man shared how he greeted a small girl in her mother tongue, Sepedi, and instead of replying, she ran inside shouting: “Daddy, daddy, a man who speaks your language is at the gate!”…
At its heart, Dagbon’s voice is one of resilience and wisdom—take the saying “Tin yi woga, tin mbe di tooni”, which means “If a town is far, there is another farther away.” It’s a powerful reminder that challenges exist at every horizon. Dagbanli—also known as Dagbani, the language of the Dagombas—is more than words: it…
Dagbon is one of the oldest and most respected kingdoms in modern-day Ghana. Our history is not just long, but full of strength, leadership, and pride. For centuries, we have been known for our deep culture, strong traditional systems, and the wisdom of our leaders. The way our society was built allowed us to grow,…
The Kali Bindira Chuɣu festival is an exciting celebration of Northern Ghana’s rich culinary heritage, focusing on traditional foods and their connection to the region’s culture and environment. Organized by Duduhgu in partnership with the Dagbon Media Foundation (operators of dagbonkingdom.com), the festival aims to revive ancestral recipes and showcase the importance of indigenous crops…
Naa Maham Kpema is a towering figure in the history of Dagbon, remembered for his bravery, leadership, and pivotal role in shaping the kingdom during a turbulent era. Born into a royal lineage, his life was marked by significant military and political events that solidified his place in Dagbon’s rich heritage. As a young warrior,…
Tolon Na Yakubu Tali succeeded Tolon Na Abla Zeggu, following the reigns of Na Alaasani and Na Abla Bla. His leadership marked a transformative period for Tolon Nam, as the role of the Tolon Na shifted from martial defense to one of intellectual defense and political influence. Born to Tali Na Asan, whose chiefship ended…
Tolon Na Suleman Bila II, son of Na Doozo, reigned during one of the most tumultuous times in Dagbon’s history. His short but significant reign (1899–1900) witnessed a major clash between Dagbon and the Germans, an event referred to in Dagbon oral tradition as the “Sang Dali la” (the day at Sang). The conflict, which…
The reign of Tolon Na Yiri Kpema is marked by one of the most challenging conflicts in the history of Dagbon: the Battle of Zabarma. This battle recounted in the traditions of Dagbon and through the memories of drum historians, highlights the pivotal defensive role of Tolon Na Yiri Kpema and his family during the…
The reign of Tolon Na Mahami Kpema marks a significant period in the history of Dagbon, particularly due to his pivotal role in defending the kingdom during the Kumpatia Battle. Na Mahami Kpema, the son of Tolon Na Adama and the seventh chief of the Tolon Nam, is remembered in the annals of Dagbon’s history…
The Jagbo Shrine and Sacred Groveholds a significant place in the spiritual, political, and socio-economic life of Tolon Nam. Located near Tali, approximately 36 kilometers west of Tolon, this shrine is not only revered as a center of worship but also valued for its natural beauty. The grove is a large woodland, home to a…
