A New African Elite: Place in the Making of a Bridge Generation

This book explores the first generation of Dagomba in northern Ghana who relocate to Accra, becoming cosmopolitan while holding on to tradition and influencing politics back home.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 11 March 2022
Publisher: Berghahn Books

This captivating book delves into the lives of a remarkable sub-set of the Dagomba people residing in northern Ghana. It explores the experiences of the first generation who ventured into secondary school in the northern region, and subsequently relocated to Accra, the bustling capital situated hundreds of miles south. These individuals traversed both social and physical boundaries, emerging as cosmopolitan individuals while simultaneously maintaining strong ties to their hometown. Serving as a bridge between different communities, this generation has assumed a patronizing role towards those living in the northern parts of Ghana.

The book meticulously charts their journey towards elite status, highlighting how they leverage the educational and social connections they have acquired to exert influence in politics back home. Through vivid narratives and insightful analysis, the author sheds light on the complexities and challenges faced by this group as they navigate their way through the social and political landscape of Ghana.

The book offers valuable insights into the dynamics of education, social mobility, and the role of individuals in shaping the political landscape of their communities. It sheds light on the ways in which education can empower individuals to overcome social barriers and achieve success, while also emphasizing the importance of maintaining cultural heritage and values in the face of rapid change.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of social transformation, cultural identity, and the impact of education on individual and societal development. It provides a rich and nuanced perspective on the lives of the Dagomba people and their journey towards a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800733787