Report by Akushey OTOO
On March 7, 2026, Nii Kwatei Quartey, Head of the Gbawe Kwatei Family, was formally inducted into the Kpakpatsewe Royal Family of Asere at the Gua Stool House in Ga Mashie. His induction marks a significant moment in the traditional leadership structure of the royal house.
Nii Kwatei Quartey succeeds the late Ebenezer Kpakpa Quartey, popularly known as “White White,” who previously held the position within the royal lineage.
The ceremony was graced by several traditional authorities. Among them were the Ga State Akwashong Mantse, Nii Kwatei Kojo II, and the Gua Wulormo, Nuumo Gua, who performed the necessary traditional rites and blessings to mark the occasion.
The Gbawe Royal Family traces its ancestry to Nii Osiakwan through Nii Laryea Tormekpe, a prominent historical figure and son of Guatei Asasehene. Guatei Asasehene was the occupant of the Ga Mashie Stool, also known as the Ga Akwashong Stool, in 1675.
Historical records indicate that Guatei Asasehene passed away in 1740. His son, Nii Laryea Tormekpe, continued the lineage and became the progenitor of several notable descendants, including Kpakpa, Gbawe Kwatei, Kwakwei, and other siblings.
The Gbawe Royal Family is therefore recognized as descendants of Nii Laryea Tormekpe, who was also the brother of Kwatei Kojo I. Both lineages originate from the Gua Kpakpatsewe Royal House, a significant royal family within the Ga traditional system.
The induction of Nii Kwatei Quartey reinforces the historical connection between the Gbawe lineage and the Kpakpatsewe Royal House, while also preserving the traditions and leadership heritage of the Asere Gua Stool House.
The person who has power and authority on the Gbawe Land and the village is only the Gbawe mantse who also doubles as the Daasetse of Akwashong stool.
The affirmation took place during a brief but significant gathering of elders and representatives from the various family houses, including Kwatei Nukpa We, Kwateifio We, Kwateibibio We, and Kpapkatse We (also known as Gua We). The meeting was held in accordance with long-standing Ga customs that require consensus among the principal family gates to validate leadership.
During the proceedings, elders from Kpapkatse We (Gua We) officially declared their acceptance and recognition of Nii Kwatei Quartey as the legitimate head of the Kwatei family. Their endorsement followed consultations and traditional processes aimed at ensuring harmony and continuity in the family’s leadership structure.
Family representatives noted that the affirmation demonstrates the collective will of the Kwatei family to support the new head as he begins his tenure. They emphasized that unity among the various houses remains essential for the progress of the family and the proper management of family lands and affairs.
In brief remarks, Nii Kwatei Quartey expressed appreciation to the elders and heads of the various houses for their support and confidence in him. He reiterated his commitment to leading with fairness, transparency, and respect for tradition.
“I am grateful to the elders and the various houses for their affirmation. My leadership will focus on peace, unity, and the development of the Kwatei family,” he said.
Elders also used the occasion to encourage family members, particularly the youth, to rally behind the new leadership and actively contribute to initiatives that will enhance the welfare and reputation of the family.
The affirmation ceremony, though modest, carried deep cultural significance as it symbolized the full endorsement of the family leadership structure under Ga customary practice.
With the recognition by the various houses now complete, the Kwatei family of Gbawe is expected to move forward under the leadership of Nii Kwatei Quartey, focusing on unity, development, and the preservation of their rich heritage.
