Volta Lake Akosombo Dam Cruise & Cedi Beadmaking - February 18-19, 2022

Cedi Beads: The sign at the bead factory reads, “Bead Is Good for Everyone.” We’re not exactly sure what that means, but perhaps it comes from the tradition that a bead was originally carried by a person so they would remember to pray. Eventually, beads were connected with chains, hence the Catholic rosary. Beads made from expensive gems were worn by royalty to demonstrate a connection with their gods. 

We met Nomoda Ebenizer Djaba, who is known to everyone as Cedi, and his brother who work together in the business started by their grandfather.

Cedi demonstrates how the beads are polished on a rock.

Worker adding crushed glass to a clay mold prior to firing.

All of the materials, and the artist, to make sure the beads we made turned out right.

A finished product.

Cedi is one of the best known local and international beadmakers. The process involves crushing glass, such as old bottles or broken window panes, funneling it into clay moulds and firing in a wood burning kiln. The beadmakers make the process look easy, but it takes years of apprenticeship and practice to be recognized as an accomplished artisan. 

Cedi’s brother, a proud member of the Church, had just returned from a two-year international tour where he taught bead making to artisans in countries in every corner of the world. He was so excited that a group of missionaries had arrived to learn about the trade. We learned his conversion story and he told us of the callings he’s had. His hope is that his brother, Cedi, and the factory workers will embrace the gospel. We asked if he would like some copies of the Book of Mormon we carry in the car. He eagerly said yes and with one of us, presented a copy to each accepting friend and co-worker. 

Volta Lake Akosombo Dam Cruise:  The Volta Lake is the largest man-made lake in the world. The documentary video showing how the dam was built in the early 1960’s was interesting. It was another example of how America shared her financial and intellectual assets with a country in need.  

We took a two hour and forty-five minute cruise one-way across the lake to little Dodi Island where we were entertained by children performing cultural dancing and singing, a camel and a horse to ride. I chose to ride the camel—another item off the bucket list.

The two-day excursion to the Volta Region was another experience in getting to know and enjoy our fellow missionaries. We all love the Savior and agree the AWA is a great place to serve Him.