The Myths Surrounding the TRↄMO (The Bongo Antelope--Tragelaphus Eurycerus) and Fauna Conservation Among the Akan of Ghana: A Critical Analysis

Abstract

Despite recent interest in indigenous religio-cultural studies on environmental conservation, only few studies have delved into how these indigenous beliefs and practices particularly those based on myths and rituals can assist in the conservation of some endangered fauna species. Through an ethnographic research project conducted in regions inhabited by the Akan ethnic group in Ghana, we examined the environmental and resource conservational values embedded in some of these religio-cultural beliefs and practices.  In doing so, we focused especially on one particular animal, trɔmo (the bongo antelope), an endangered species about which there are many myths related to its huntability. Although we conclude that the bongo antelope is huntable by the Akan, the data shows that its hunting is not frequent as compared to other animals due to the fear embedded in the myths surrounding it. This fear helps in the conservation of bongo antelope species in the study areas.

Keywords: Worldview, Myths on animals, Rituals, Conservation, Akan, Trↄmo (bongo antelope) Sasaduro (anti-sasa Medicine).