Adum: The Heartbeat of Kumasi

• HelloAane
  [ah-neh]
• GoodbyeDa yie
  [dah yee-eh]
• YesAane
  [ah-neh]
• NoDabi
  [dah-bee]
• Please/You're welcomeMesrɛ
  [meh-sreh]
• Thank youMedaase
  [meh-dah-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryKɔkɔɔ
  [koh-koh]
• How are you?Ɛte sɛn?
  [eh-teh sehn]
• Fine. And you?Eli. Na wo nni?
  [eh-lee. nah woh nee]
• Do you speak English?Wo ka English?
  [woh kah ing-glish]
• I don't understandMente asɛm
  [mehn-teh ah-sehm]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMepɛ menu no, mesrɛ
  [meh-peh meh-noo noh, meh-sreh]
• I don't eat meatMe nnyɛ ntama
  [meh nee-eh n-tah-mah]
• Cheers!Aseda
  [ah-seh-dah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMepɛ sika, mesrɛ
  [meh-peh see-kah, meh-sreh]

• Help!Boa me
  [boh-ah meh]
• Go away!Kɔ kwan
  [koh kwan]
• Call the Police!Kyerɛ atadeɛ!
  [che-ye ah-tah-deh]
• Call a doctor!Kyerɛ dokita!
  [che-ye doh-kee-tah]
• I'm lostMepɛ sɛ mɛka
  [meh-peh seh meh-kah]
• I'm illMepɛ sɛ mɛhwe
  [meh-peh seh meh-weh]

• I'd like to buy...Mepɛ kyerɛ...
  [meh-peh che-ye]
• I'm just lookingMepɛ deɛ
  [meh-peh deh]
• How much is it?Afei yɛ sɛn?
  [ah-feh yeh sehn]
• That's too expensiveAfei yɛ yɛn yie
  [ah-feh yeh yehn yee-eh]
• Can you lower the price?Wo pɛ sika afei yɛ?
  [woh peh see-kah ah-feh yeh]

• What time is it?Ɛteɛ sɛn?
  [eh-teh-eh sehn]
• It's one o'clockAbea no te
  [ah-beh-ah no teh]
• Half past (10)Abea no aduonu
  [ah-beh-ah no ah-dwoh-noo]
• MorningAnɔpa
  [ah-noh-pah]
• AfternoonAwia
  [ah-wee-ah]
• EveningAnɔpa mu
  [ah-noh-pah moo]
• YesterdayNnansefo
  [n-nahn-seh-foh]
• TodayƐnnora
  [ehn-noh-rah]
• TomorrowƐnnɔn
  [ehn-nohn]
• 1Bɔ
  [boh]
• 2Aso
  [ah-soh]
• 3Nsɛ
  [n-seh]
• 4Nnɛ
  [n-neh]
• 5Nnum
  [n-noom]
• 6Nsia
  [n-shah]
• 7Nson
  [n-sohn]
• 8Nnwɔtwe
  [n-nwoht-weh]
• 9Kronon
  [kroh-nohn]
• 10Du
  [doo]

• Where's a/the...?Ɛhe na...?
  [eh-heh nah]
• What's the address?Dɛn nsɛm no?
  [dehn n-sehm noh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Wo de me da (map mu)?
  [woh deh meh dah (map moo)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ɛhe na...boa no?
  [eh-heh nah...boh-ah noh]
• A ticket (to ....)Nkuto (ka...)
  [n-koo-toh (kah)]

Adum, located in the heart of Kumasi, has played a pivotal role in the history of the Ashanti Empire since its establishment in the late 17th century. As the capital of the Ashanti Kingdom, Kumasi became a bustling hub of trade and culture, with Adum serving as a key commercial center. The area was characterized by vibrant markets and was integral to the socio-economic activities of the Ashanti people.

During the late 19th century, Kumasi, including Adum, faced significant changes due to British colonial rule. The Ashanti-British wars culminated in the annexation of the Ashanti Empire in 1902. Adum was transformed as British colonial administrators established administrative offices and infrastructure, which altered the landscape and function of the neighbourhood, integrating Western architectural styles with traditional Ashanti elements.

Adum is known for its vibrant markets, such as the Adum Market, which dates back to the 20th century. This market has been a cornerstone of local commerce, where artisans and traders gather to sell textiles, beads, and traditional crafts. The market reflects the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the Ashanti people, contributing to Kumasi's reputation as a center of trade in Ghana.

Adum is not only a commercial hub but also a cultural epicenter. It hosts various traditional festivals, including the Ashanti Akwasidae festival, which celebrates the rich heritage of the Ashanti people. These events attract attendees from across the region and showcase traditional music, dance, and art, reinforcing Adum's role in preserving and promoting Ashanti culture.

In recent years, Adum has witnessed significant urbanization and development. With the influx of modern businesses, hotels, and restaurants, the neighbourhood has evolved into a thriving urban center. This transformation reflects the dynamic nature of Kumasi as it balances tradition with contemporary influences, making Adum a focal point for both locals and tourists seeking to experience the vibrant culture of the Ashanti capital.

Adum is centrally located in Kumasi and is easily accessible from other neighborhoods. You can take a taxi, which is the most convenient option, or use shared taxis known as 'trotros' that operate on various routes throughout the city. If coming from the Kumasi International Airport, a taxi ride will take approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Adum is best navigated on foot for short distances, as many local attractions are nearby. For longer distances, taxis and trotro services are widely available. Bicycles can be rented from local shops, but be cautious of road conditions and traffic. There are no trains operating within Kumasi, so public transport mainly consists of buses and taxis.

While Adum is generally safe for tourists, it is wise to stay vigilant. Areas surrounding the markets can become crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings. Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in less populated streets. Be cautious in the vicinity of the Kumasi Central Market, where petty crimes occasionally occur. It's advised to travel in groups when possible.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police assistance or 191 for fire emergencies. The local hospitals and clinics can provide medical assistance if needed. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the locations of nearby clinics and pharmacies for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting places of worship. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially during religious ceremonies. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers, and don’t engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a warm smile and handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and share meals with others. Don't waste food or show disdain for local cuisine.

To experience Adum like a local, visit the vibrant Kejetia Market for an authentic shopping experience. Engage with local artisans and try your hand at bargaining. Sample street food, particularly 'kebabs' and 'waakye' from local vendors. Attend local events or festivals to immerse yourself in the culture. Learning a few phrases in Twi can also enhance interactions with locals.