First Granddaughter of Torgbi Sri I Marks 80 Years of God’s Goodness
The life of Madam Kokuiga Kwawukumey is a rich tapestry woven from royal heritage, enterprise, resilience, and an enduring commitment to family and community. She is the first daughter of Oscar Atsu Kwawukumey, and the first granddaughter of Togbui Sri I, the revered overlord of the Anlo State, firmly placing Kokuiga within the distinguished lineage of traditional leadership, cultural authority, and responsibility.
Closely tied to this royal heritage is the legacy of her grandmother, Queen Rosina Kwawukumey, a woman remembered for her strength, wisdom, and industrious spirit. Many who have observed Madam Kokuiga Kwawukumey’s life see in her the living continuation of that legacy.
Her discipline, resilience, and unwavering commitment to hard work reflect not only personal determination but also the enduring influence of her ancestry.
Her entrepreneurial journey began in Kumasi, where she established herself as a bread baker. Through consistency and quality, her products became widely loved, earning her the affectionate accolade: “Akorla dzi su… wo mame be to ama wo”—“Stop crying, your mother will buy it for you.” This recognition symbolized trust, community acceptance, and the early success of a woman determined to build her own path.
Driven by ambition and vision, she later moved to Lagos, where she ventured into Ghanaian fashion. There, she built not only a business but a training ground for empowerment, mentoring over 300 apprentices who have since spread across the fashion world.
Her workshop became a hub of creativity, discipline, and opportunity—reflecting her commitment to lifting others as she advanced.
Her journey continued to Lomé, where she expanded into cross-border trade. As early as 1978, she was actively trading African cotton wool used in Kente weaving, contributing to the preservation of one of West Africa’s most treasured cultural fabrics.
Her foresight and courage in navigating regional markets positioned her as a key player in informal trade networks.
Recognizing the growing demand for traditional products, she diversified further into the trade of black soap. Sourcing from Bodzoe, she exported to both Togo and Nigeria, strengthening economic links across borders and reinforcing her role as a connector of markets and communities.
A defining moment in her life came during a visit to her daughter at the University of Education, Winneba. After a supply trip to Bodzoe, she noticed the challenge students faced in accessing affordable meals.
True to her entrepreneurial instincts, she established a local food joint that quickly became essential to campus life. Her leadership earned her recognition as the first Market Queen for the North Campus market women. With support from Hon. Kpodo and Hon. Amenorwode, she led the construction of a canteen behind the JCR, creating a lasting structure that supported both traders and students.
At the age of 60, rather than slowing down, Madam Kokuiga Kwawukumey returned home and began yet another chapter of enterprise. She opened a provision shop, later boldly naming it “No Food for Lazy Man.” This was more than a business name—it was a philosophy.
It reflected her lifelong belief in hard work, responsibility, and self-reliance, while also serving as a clear message to customers and creditors alike on the value of discipline and accountability.
Beyond business and leadership, her greatest legacy lies in her role as a mother. She raised three accomplished children—Mrs. Jessica Akplu-Ayi, Mrs. Harmony Akplu- Awunyo, and Mr. Oscar Akaba Norvixoxo—as a dedicated single parent.
Despite the demands of her entrepreneurial life, she ensured they received strong academic foundations and moral guidance. Her commitment to both her nuclear and extended family reflects her belief that success must be shared and sustained through unity.
Throughout her life, Madam Kokuiga Kwawukumey has remained a woman of simplicity despite her royal roots and remarkable achievements. She has demonstrated that true nobility is not defined by status alone, but by character, discipline, and the ability to uplift others.
At 80, she stands as a living bridge between generations—a woman who embodies the strength of her ancestry and the impact of her own journey.
Many say she has indeed taken on the industrious spirit of Queen Mother Rosina Kwawukumey, and through her life’s work, she has honored the legacy of Togbui Sri I in the most meaningful way—through service, resilience, and enduring influence.
