Dr. Linda Kreitzer, a professor emerita of Social Work at the University of Calgary, has undertaken a huge cultural project focusing on Nana Yaa Asantewaa, a revered Queen Mother and leader of Ghana’s Asante resistance against British colonization in 1900.
The project, which includes a graphic novel and a documentary, seeks to reclaim and celebrate Yaa Asantewaa’s legacy as a military leader and cultural icon through a feminist lens.
Kreitzer’s connection to Ghana began in 1994 as a volunteer with Voluntary Services Overseas.
Over three decades, her work in Ghana has included research, teaching, and collaboration.
The inspiration for this project arose from discussions with Dr. Francis Boakye, a University of Calgary alumnus, who highlighted the underrepresentation of African women like Nana Yaa Asantewaa in historical narratives. Kreitzer remarked, “I was inspired by conversations with one of our alumni, Francis Boakye, PhD’93, who spoke about the overlooked contributions of African women in history, particularly Nana Yaa Asantewaa.”
Nana Yaa Asantewaa: A Leader in the War of the Golden StoolNana Yaa Asantewaa, the Queen Mother of Ejisu, is renowned for her role in the War of the Golden Stool, a key moment of resistance against British imperialism. Despite her pivotal role, her contributions have often been diminished in colonial accounts. Kreitzer noted,
“Colonial narratives have diminished her contributions, portraying her as a background figure. Our project aims to challenge that bias, exploring her story through a feminist lens to highlight her significance as a military leader and cultural icon.”
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
The project involved collaboration between the University of Calgary and the University of Ghana. The research team, supported by grants from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) and the UCalgary Transdisciplinary program, included academics and experts from diverse fields.
Among them were Dr. Mavis Dako-Gyeke, dean of the School of Social Sciences at the University of Ghana, and Dr. Alice Boateng, a Queen Mother descended from Nana Yaa Asantewaa’s lineage.
The team conducted extensive research, including visits to historical sites, interviews with descendants, and the examination of colonial records.
The resulting graphic novel was illustrated by Ghanaian artist Marvin Opuni, complemented by a documentary film to ensure the authenticity and cultural accuracy of the portrayal.
Reclaiming Herstory
A core objective of the project was to reframe Nana Yaa Asantewaa’s story from a feminist perspective.
Kreitzer emphasized, “Her contributions have been undervalued, partly due to male-dominated historical narratives. Our work really wanted to showcase both her military leadership and her identity as a woman — a mother, a farmer, and a passionate advocate for her people.”
The project aims to inspire women globally by presenting positive role models and challenging systemic biases.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
The graphic novel and documentary were launched at a gala at the University of Ghana, attended by over 400 participants, including scholars, students, and queen mothers.
Proceeds from the graphic novel sales will support the restoration of Nana Yaa Asantewaa’s shrine in Besease and provide copies to schools across Ghana.
Kreitzer hopes the project’s impact will extend beyond Ghana to resonate with women worldwide, including the African diaspora in Canada.
“This is a cultural project with global implications,” she explained. “It’s about preserving history, celebrating African women’s leadership, and inspiring new generations.”
