Florys gently rose from her bed, breathing in the fresh morning air. A smile lit up her face as she realized it was the big day. Without delay, she made her way to the twins’ bedroom and softly woke them up.

— Hey girls, it’s time to wake up. Today is a special day!
Together, they headed to Valentin’s room.
— Valentin, wake up! Today’s the big day.

— let’s go!

The house was buzzing with excitement. The staff were rushing about, preparing for the long-awaited day. Service providers arrived with their equipment, while the makeup artist was setting up their workspace. Florys, Valentin, and the twins went back and forth, making sure everything was going according to plan. Only two hours remained before the start of the Akan Brunch.

Florys wore a stunning traditional Akan outfit, featuring an orange kita cloth with golden reflections, paired with a golden lace top. She wore a gold chain across her forehead, anklets, and other gold jewelry around her neck. Matching sandals completed her look.

Valentin, for his part, sported a kita cloth in similar colors to Florys’s, along with a matching lace top. Gold jewelry — including a long chain around his neck, a hat, and anklets — added a touch of elegance to his outfit. Royal sandals completed his majestic appearance.

The twins wore identical kente dresses, decorated with geometric patterns and beads. They too wore matching gold jewelry and anklets, and their beautifully braided hairstyles were adorned with golden accessories.

Mr. Koffi, the family patriarch, wore a traditional Akan ensemble that was both elegant and understated. His kita cloth and lace top, in subtle tones, reflected his wisdom and strength. His simple yet sophisticated gold jewelry accentuated his natural charisma.

Their appearance as a whole reflected the rich cultural heritage of Côte d’Ivoire, evoking a deep sense of pride and celebration.

The journey to the Akan Brunch was lively. They left the Koffi family villa in a convoy of cars, weaving through the vibrant streets of Abidjan. The morning sun lit up the city, highlighting the market stalls and bustling roads. Ivorian music echoed joyfully through the streets.

The Akan Brunch was a true tribute to Ivorian culture. The stage, adorned with traditional Akan patterns, colorful fabrics, and exquisite wooden carvings, was a dazzling sight. Stalls brimming with local delicacies offered a tantalizing variety of Ivorian dishes. Musicians, with their lively rhythms and traditional songs, invited guests to dance and immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere.

Craft stands showcased jewelry, sculptures, and clothing made from traditional cloth. Guests strolled among the booths, soaking up the lively ambiance. Traditional Akan dances were performed, offering a captivating glimpse into the country’s cultural heritage. Local artists also highlighted Côte d’Ivoire’s creative richness through their exhibited works.

What a delight it was to witness all those traditional dances! Dressed in costumes adorned with colorful patterns, the dancers moved with grace and agility, telling ancestral stories through their rhythmic gestures. Hypnotic drums resonated in the air, even drawing spectators to join in the dance.

As for the food, foutou banane, attiéké, placali, grilled fish, poulet yassa, and garba made up the feast — a delicious fusion of Ivorian flavors. Desserts made with plantain, fresh mangoes, and coconut added a sweet touch to the culinary experience.

Florys and Valentin were in awe. They watched the dancers with fascination, captivated by the grace and passion in each movement.

— These dances are truly beautiful. Papa Koffi, what do all these movements and costumes mean? Florys asked.

Mr. Koffi smiled kindly and replied:

— Of course, my dear. These traditional dances are deeply rooted in the history of the Akan peoples. For example, the dance you see over there is kpanlogo. It comes from the Ga tribe and symbolizes unity and the celebration of life. The dancers use smooth and graceful movements to tell stories of victory and joy.

— Wow! And these colorful costumes? What do the dancers’ outfits mean? the twins asked, amazed.
— Each pattern and color has symbolic meaning. Red represents courage and passion, yellow stands for wealth and vitality, while green symbolizes growth and fertility. The details of the outfits are thoughtfully designed to reflect the values and beliefs of our culture, he explained.

Moved, Florys responded:
— That’s fascinating. Thank you for sharing this with us. I feel like I understand much better how important these dances are in preserving the Akan people’s history and identity.

As the evening progressed, the “dust ball” (bal poussière) was launched.

The twins joined Florys and Valentin on the dance floor. Mr. Koffi, standing nearby, watched his family with pride, delighted to see them immersed in this tradition.

As the night wore on, Florys whispered to Valentin:
— I now understand where your warmth comes from. Your people are so welcoming, so full of life. I feel so connected here.
— I’m happy you feel at home here.
The twins joined in the conversation:
— Florys, you’re like a sister to us now! We’re so happy you’re here with us.
— And I’m so happy to be here! You are my family now. Thank you for welcoming me so warmly, Florys replied, moved, hugging them.

Noticing the late hour, Mr. Koffi gently brought them back to reality:
— Children, I don’t want to spoil the evening, but it’s getting late. We should think about heading back soon.
— Already? We were having so much fun, the twins chimed in.
— It was an amazing evening. Thank you, everyone! added Florys.
— Don’t worry, said Valentin, taking her hand. We’ll have many more opportunities to have fun. But for now, it’s time for bed…

This text is an excerpt from the book “CROSSED DESTINIES” written by Glosia Tah.

We invite you to read the following article: “WITH OPEN ARMS”.

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