Tracing Roots (Sankofa): Decorative African Wooden Walking Stick

Sankofa, a single word that holds the wisdom of generations. "Go back and get it." "Return to your roots." In the Akan culture of Ghana, this powerful Adinkra symbol teaches that true progress requires honoring the past.

Ghanaian artisan Eva Asantewa Amakye brings that philosophy to life in this hand-carved walking stick, where cultural heritage meets functional artistry. A striking Sankofa bird sits at the heart of the design, looking backward while moving forward and carrying a precious egg that represents the treasures of ancestral knowledge. The comfortable handle flows into the bird, and a twisted shaft carries the eye down the length of the stick.

The Meaning of Sankofa

The Akan people of Ghana developed the Adinkra symbol system centuries ago, creating a visual language that communicates deep philosophical ideas. Sankofa is one of its most recognized and beloved symbols. It draws on the Akan proverb "Se wo were fi na wosankofa a yenkyi," which teaches that it is never wrong to go back for what you have forgotten. For generations of people of African descent, Sankofa has become a call to reclaim history, honor the ancestors and carry their lessons into the future.

Walking Sticks in African Tradition

Throughout West Africa, a carved walking stick speaks before its owner does. Among the Akan, royal spokesmen known as akyeame carry staffs whose carvings illustrate proverbs, and elders have long carried carved sticks as signs of wisdom and the respect earned over a lifetime. A walking stick bearing the Sankofa bird joins that tradition, carrying a message about memory, heritage and purpose with every step.

Hand Carved in Ghana

This walking stick is carved from rich sese wood, a native West African wood prized by Ghanaian carvers for the fine detail it holds. It is hand-painted to accentuate every feature, with earth-toned accents in black, brown and cream that honor the natural materials and traditional aesthetic. Because each piece is made by hand, color, size and motif vary slightly, the mark of authentic artisan work.

Eva Asantewa Amakye designs walking sticks that put West African symbols and proverbs into the hand. Alongside Tracing Roots, her work at Black Art Depot includes the Fierce Denkyem crocodile walking stick and the Winding Path walking stick.

Display It or Carry It

Display it on a wall as a celebration of African heritage, stand it in a study or entryway, or carry it as a distinctive accessory at family reunions, Kwanzaa, Juneteenth and other cultural celebrations. It makes a meaningful gift for a father, grandfather, educator, historian or anyone who keeps the family story alive.

Please Note: This decorative walking stick supports up to 200 lbs and is not intended for heavy-duty or medical use. It is crafted for display, cultural celebration and light accessory use. The stick does not include a rubber tip. You can purchase one separately; however, because each piece is handmade and the end width varies, we recommend waiting until your walking stick arrives so you can measure it and choose a tip that fits properly.

Measures 37" H x 4.5" W x 2" D. 1.2 lbs. Made in Ghana.