Godenu - Traditional Ruler
The territory of Gbi-Godenu is located in the area of Hohoe, Volta Region of Ghana. The name Godenu means "Be Steadfast With God." There are over 13,000 people living in the territory of Godenu consisting of approximately seven square miles with four major settlements. There are four lower chiefs and several sub-chiefs that administer parts of Godenu under the ruling Togbe. There have been traditional rulers of these territories in Ghana long before, during and after colonial rule by the British was ended in 1958.
The Kingdom has its direct foundation in 1942 as a result of disputes and challenges to the reign of Togbe Osei II by warring houses who did not accept the rule of Togbe Osei II over the whole of the Wegbe Kingdom dating back several centuries. Together with his loyal subjects Togbe Osei II left Wegbe with his ancestors’ throne and created the Kingdom of Godenu which was confirmed in 1947. He was a judge in the Colonial Government and was fluent in German, English, French, and the local language Ewe. Togbe Osei II ruled over Wegbe and subsequently Godenu for sixty years, reaching a venerable age before he died. Togbe Osei II was the grandfather of the present Dufia of Godenu.
Ghana is a republic in West Africa. There are dozens of tribes in Ghana, and the bedrock institution of chieftaincy is guaranteed and protected by the Constitution of Ghana. Although chiefs are not permitted to participate in partisan politics, they hold vitally important spiritual and leadership positions in Ghanaian society. The National House of Chiefs has authority over traditional laws and customs, and chiefs have a great deal of authority and influence over community affairs and government.
