The Akan Ohemaa[1] is referred to as the repository of wisdom and co-ruler of the Ohene[2] ; exercises her authority in analogous to that of the Ohene. According to Akan custom, and symbol of their authority, both have their separate courts.
The study interrogates popular perceptions regarding the engagement of citizenry with traditional institutions such as the Ohemaa’s court. Accounting for its continued relevance in traditional, as well as, modern governance in Ghana. In reference to SDG Goal 16, and UN Security Council Resolution 1325, the study highlights the grassroots role of women in resolving community disputes. By employing an ethnographic study of the Asantehemaa’s Court in Kumasi, I examine the role of the Ohemaa’s court as a space for championing women’s rights (especially in domestic matters), providing justice for women and improving upon achieving gender equitable societies.
Preliminary findings suggests that, the Ohemaa’s court jurisdiction is not limited to domestic but encompasses issues of feminine authority versus patriarchal domination leading to societal cohesion. Secondly, the Ohemaa’s court is a space where gender equitable societies are realized in relation to Akan customary constitution and laws. Finally, the activities of mediation and adjudication in these courts, are evident of the nature of conflicts that arise in Akan communities of Ghana.