Posted by Chester Morton / Saturday, 21 January 2017 / No comments
The aims and objectives of the Fante Confederacy
THE FANTE CONFEDERACY
Introduction
The Fante confederacy is an example of a proto-nationalist
movement which was formed in 1868 in Mankesim. It was the first
proto-nationalist group to be formed. It was formed by a combination of people
from the southern parts of the Gold Coast, their chiefs and the educated elite.
Several reasons have been advanced for its formation.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
Friendly relationship
One of the aims of the confederacy was to ensure that there
is peace and harmony among the kings and chiefs of Fante land so that they can
ward off external aggression and also be able to attack states that are a
threat to them.
Provision of social amenities
Another aim of the confederacy was to ensure the provision of
social amenities such as schools and roads in the confederacy.
Enhance agricultural and industrial activity
Also, the confederacy aimed at the promotion of agricultural
and industrial activities that have the capacity to bring wealth to their land.
Development of natural resources
It was also the aim of the Fante Confederacy to promote the
development of the natural resources of the state which includes the mineral
resources.
Stand up to the British
The Confederacy also aimed at standing up to the British and
fighting to be the determinants of their own affairs. It was also to prevent
the British from taking over their rights.
Unite against Europeans
Finally, the confederacy was aimed at presenting a combined
power against the people of Europe.
REASONS FOR THE
FORMATION
Ensure their own protection
One of the reasons for the formation of this confederacy was
the realization that they could not always depend on the protection of British against
their enemies. The Asantes, for example, had attacked Cape Coast just five
years earlier in 1863 and there arose the need for protection to be provided by
their very own selves.
Prevent British interference
Another reason was to the need to protect themselves against even
the British themselves. The British had interfered with the rights of the people in the Gold Coast on very many occasions to the dislike of the locals.
Stop possible Asante occupation of the coast
Also, the confederacy was formed to weather the possible consequences
of the change of the ownership of the fort in Cape Coast from the British to
the Dutch. It was feared that the Asantes, who were the traditional allies of
the Dutch might be emboldened to attempt an occupation of the coast.
Need for self-rule
Finally, the educated elite had the reason to believe that it
was time for the Gold Coasters to take control of their own affairs and remove
the British.
