The atmosphere at the Konor’s Palace erupted with cheers and the rhythmic pulse of drums as singer and saxophonist Manye Asabia Cropper was called to receive the prestigious Yo Kama Honour at the 2024 Ngmayem Festival of the Manya Krobo Traditional Area in the Eastern Region.
Accompanied by her bassist brother, Kente Man, Manye Asabia approached His Royal Majesty Nene Sakite II, Konor of Manya Krobo, and other dignitaries, deeply moved by the momentous occasion.
Celebrating Excellence
The Yo Kama Award, meaning “Virtuous or Exemplary Woman” in the Dangme language, was established in 2003 by Nene Sakite II through the Yokama Foundation. It recognizes outstanding women from the Manya Krobo community who have demonstrated leadership, dedication, and hard work, serving as role models for younger generations.
Kente Man was also honoured for his contributions to African culture, particularly through Highlife music and traditional arts. The duo’s efforts in preserving and promoting Ghanaian heritage were praised for their lasting impact both locally and internationally.
A Legacy of Music & Culture
A joint citation for Manye Asabia and Kente Man read:
“In recognition of their exceptional contributions to music and culture, Nene Sakite II proudly bestows upon Queen Asabia Cropper the title of Yo Kama of 2024. Together, she and Kente Man are named Cultural Ambassadors of Manya Klo State, tasked with representing the region’s vibrant traditions, fostering cultural exchanges, and promoting unity, pride, and resilience among Krobo people and beyond.
Their journey of excellence and commitment to cultural preservation makes them worthy recipients of this honour. Manya Klo celebrates their achievements and looks forward to their continued efforts in safeguarding and promoting Africa’s rich cultural heritage.”
50 Years of Music
For nearly five decades, Manye Asabia and Kente Man have worked as a dynamic musical duo. While Kente Man composes, arranges, and produces their music, Manye Asabia leads with her captivating vocals.
Starting with Sweet Talks in Tema, they later joined Black Hustlers before launching their own independent career. Their timeless hits include Towia, Inamosi, Love You So Much, and Wamaya.
Their global influence has been recognized by notable figures, including Nelson Mandela, Kenneth Kaunda, Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Henri Konan Bédié, Jerry Rawlings, and Barack Obama.
Ngmayem Festival 2024 – “Wa Maa Ya Dom”
Held from October 19 to 27, the Ngmayem Festival was themed “Homecoming: Let’s Come Back Home and Build (Wa Maa Ya Dom).” Activities included health walks, clean-up exercises, screenings, educational forums, canoe racing, football tournaments, family bazaars, and church services.
Nene Sakite II emphasized that Ngmayem is not only a celebration of abundance but a time to uphold values of unity, peace, and shared purpose passed down through generations.
Expressing her gratitude, Manye Asabia reflected on the Yo Kama honour, calling it one of her proudest moments since being enstooled as Noyaa Manye (Queen of Development) in 1993. She also acknowledged Madam Francisca Nutsu of Akro Senior Technical High School, who was recognized as the Most Outstanding Teacher in the Lower Manya Krobo Municipality.
Looking Ahead: 50th Anniversary Celebrations
As 2025 marks 50 years of Manye Asabia and Kente Man performing together, the duo is planning:
Special concerts
A documentary film chronicling their musical journey
New projects to celebrate their legacy
Manye Asabia, affectionately known as the Queen of Highlife since 1984, remains committed to preserving Highlife music, urging Ghanaians to cherish and promote the genre worldwide.
Their legacy is a testament to the enduring power of music, culture, and heritage.
Story by Obaapa Janee/ ahotoronline.com
Source: Graphic.com
