Tɔ Akyiri A Fa — “If It Falls Behind, Pick It Up”

Akosa Teaches
There is a deeper meaning behind the words “Tɔ akyiri a fa!”, a symbol associated with the Kumasi Kyidomhene, Ɔheneba Akyempemhene, and the Kyidom Fekuo.

The symbol is reminiscent of Sankofa, reminding us to look back and retrieve what has been left behind. But within the Asante royal setting, Tɔ Akyiri A Fa carries a specific responsibility.
Akosa Teaches
Whenever Otumfuo Asantehene rises from his seat and leaves the durbar grounds, the Kyidom Fekuo moves from their position and occupies the very place where the King was seated. Led by the Ɔheneba Akyempemhene, they remain there until Otumfuo safely enters the palace or his residence.
Akosa Teaches
Their duty is simple but profound: nothing must be left behind.

If something falls behind the King—be it money, an object, an ntam (oath) or even something carrying spiritual significance, whether good or bad—it is the responsibility of the Kyidom Fekuo to pick it up.
Akosa Teaches
That is the essence of:

“Tɔ akyiri a fa!”
“If it falls behind, pick it up.”

So, the next time you see the Kyidom Fekuo take the King’s seat after Otumfuo has departed, know that it is not merely about sitting in the King’s place. It is a duty of protection, responsibility and watchfulness over everything that may be left in the King’s wake.
Akosa Teaches
Asante tradition is full of meanings hidden in plain sight.

In this pic is Nananom kyidomfoɔ sitting on the simpie after the king has left the durbar grounds