Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of Asogli, has launched a significant initiative aimed at advancing traditional leadership across Africa through the establishment of the African Traditional Leadership Institute (ATLI). This institution, which is designed to serve as a central hub for the development and empowerment of traditional rulers, was announced during the third summit of Ewe Traditional Rulers held at the Volta Serene Hotel in Ho. Dr. John Afele, an international consultant overseeing the establishment of the ATLI, confirmed that the institute has been officially registered and an executive committee has been formed, with Togbe Afede elected as its inaugural president. Initial funding includes a million cedis guarantee from Strategic African Securities and a USD 20,000 contribution from Togbe Afede himself.
Situated at the World Trade Center in Accra, the ATLI is envisioned as a vital center for preserving and promoting African traditional heritage, culture, and governance systems. Dr. Afele has expressed optimism that the institute will evolve into the foremost representation of traditional leadership on the continent and will act as a center of learning and research. A multi-layered governance structure within the Institute features a strong representation of chiefs to ensure traditional leadership plays a key role in local governance. Importantly, the ATLI aims to collaborate closely with the African Union to adapt and localize its initiatives, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) at the grassroots level.
Among the notable members of the ATLI executive committee are leading scholars such as Professor Nana Nketia and Professor Raymond Atuguba. Dr. Afele emphasized the need for diplomatic engagement with various embassies and missions to garner additional support for the Institute. By identifying and aligning with projects initiated by the African Union, the ATLI plans to promote tourism and heritage initiatives that can benefit local communities. The establishment of the Institute is viewed as the first step toward galvanizing support for a larger union of traditional leaders who can collectively address challenges facing their communities.
The annual summit of Ewe traditional rulers, spearheaded by the Asogli State, serves as a platform for fostering collaboration among Ewe communities across West Africa. Dr. Afele described this summit as a foundational element for the establishment of the ATLI and emphasized its potential to unite traditional leaders from across the African continent. In his address, Togbe Afede acknowledged the complexity of this undertaking and commended the multi-stakeholder collaboration that has emerged as a result of the initiative. He reaffirmed the importance of the ATLI in addressing the challenges traditional authorities face in a rapidly modernizing world.
In his speech, Togbe Afede noted that the institute presents a crucial opportunity to reinvigorate traditional governance and its relevance in contemporary society. He articulated that the ATLI would not just serve as a platform for dialogue but also help implement programs developed by the African Union which can garner grassroots support via traditional leaders. By engaging chiefs in national development processes, Togbe Afede believes it will be possible to better mobilize citizens, encourage participation in these initiatives, and ensure tangible local benefits.
Looking towards the future, Togbe Afede shared ambitious plans for the Asogli State, including the formal establishment of committees that will enhance regional governance and community engagement. Additionally, he highlighted the necessity of revitalizing the Asogli State’s identity through branding, music, and publications. Furthermore, at the summit, representatives from the Notsie community presented plans for a heritage center dedicated to Ewe culture, which Togbe Afede committed to supporting. This initiative indicates a broader commitment to heritage preservation and cultural education, further illustrating the ATLI’s potential impact on traditional leadership development in Africa.
