Nana Okomfohene Akua Oparebea, was one of the most powerful and influential matriarchs and spiritual leaders of 20th-century Ghana. Born in Ghana in 1900, Nana Oparebea rose to prominence as a thriving Okomfo (Shaman) and traditional indigenous healer, ultimately being enstooled as the Okomfohene (Chief Shaman) of the prestigious Nene Akonnedi Shrine in Larteh, Akuapem Ghana.
Rise to Okomfohene
By the mid-20th century, Nana Akua Oparebea had already established herself as a seasoned Okomfo. She was a wealthy herbalist, traditional healer, and was noted for her psychic abilities, mastery of divination, and ability to possess several Abosom (African Spiritual Forces) in succession. She was also an instructor, training many other Akomfo in the Akfrican spiritual tradition.
Her destiny was dramatically confirmed when a white dove descended and perched upon her head while she was socializing with family and friends. Shortly thereafter, she received a message calling her to the side of the then Okomfo Panyin (senior shaman) of the Akonnedi Shrine, who was preparing to transition from the earthly plane. Nana Akua Oparebea was named as her successor and was subsequently enstooled as the new Okomfohene.
Tenure and Legacy
Serving as the Chief Shaman of the Akonedi Shrine for over four decades (c. 1950s–1995), Nana Oparebea set a historical precedent for the length of her service.
Training and Influence: During her 95-year lifespan, she is credited with training over 5,000 Akomfo (Shamans).
Symbolism: Her personal stool, known as the Rainbow Stool and carved from asese dua (the traditional wood for Akomfo stools), symbolizes the color of life. It is also the symbol for Nana Asuo Gyebi, one of her Abosom, whom she brought to the Larteh Shrine and later to the United States.
National Service:
Beyond the spiritual community, Nana Oparebea served as a trusted advisor, providing guidance, protection, and healing to top government officials, including the first President of the Free Republic of Ghana, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
Organization:
With President Nkrumah’s support, she founded and served as the first President of the Ghana Psychic and Traditional Healing Association. This organization was instrumental in unifying indigenous traditional healers across Ghana and reinforcing the value and importance of their work.
Nana Oparebea remained on her stool until her passing in 1995. Her leadership brought vitality not only to Larteh but also to the whole of Ghana.