Lahare Kunde is a “medicine” shrine (atikevodu, literally, “tree-root vodu”) brought to southern Ghana in the early twentieth century from northern Ghana. Originating from the north, the shrine is infused with an Islamic atmosphere, though no shrine member adheres to the Islamic faith. The shrine spread from the Volta Region and now is one of the dominant shrines along the Guinea Coast, offering cures for all kinds of afflictions. Along with the effectiveness of its healing power, its popularity is due in no small part to its powerful music, northern drums sounding in a southern land, calling Divine Horsemen to ride their mounts.
The conference welcomes the Lahare Kunde Shrine from the village of Lente located a few kilometers from the Togo border in the eastern part of the Ketu District. This is one of the oldest shrines, brought to his natal village by the priest Sɔfo Peter, which is now headed by his son Sɔfo Salifu. Today you will have the unique opportunity to experience this music and dance, and perhaps the gods if they decide to ride in a very different setting on the campus of the University of Ghana. This is not a performance put on for an audience, but, as always, a celebration of these Divine Horsemen.