West African-style netted gourd rattle (Ga akasa)

The akasa (pron. ah-KAH-sah) of the Ga people of Ghana is a type of netted gourd rattle found elsewhere in West and Central Africa under various names, including sekere (Nigeria) jabara (Mali), and shegbureh (Sierra Leone). Our version features cowrie shell strikers, which are strung onto white netting.

Dimensions: 6" h., 7" diam.

In play, the instrument is draped over the shoulders and its side and bottom tapped with the fingers of both hands. Alternatively, you can tap the opening of the gourd with the palm of one hand while tapping the side and bottom with the fingers of the other hand.