Anyi people

Ethnic group in Ivory Coast, Ghana and Togo Ethnic group AnyiDrawing of an Agni man, 1892.Total population~2.5 millionRegions with significant populationsLanguagesAnyi, FrenchReligionAkan religion, ChristianityRelated ethnic groupsOther Akans, especially Baoulé, Chakosi, and Sefwi The Anyi people (also spelled Agni and historically known as the Aowin) are a branch of the Akan people inhabiting southeastern Côte d'Ivoire and southwestern Ghana. They trace their origins to the ancient Akan state of Bonoman, and historically established a number of influential polities across the forest zones of West Africa. The most prominent of these was the Aowin state, which served as a major center of gold production and trade. Other notable Anyi polities include Indénié, Sanwi, and Bettié, each maintaining cultural and political continuity with Aowin traditions. Ethnonymy Various sources refer to the group as Aowin, Awowin, Agnis, Ani, Anya, Anyi, Anyis, or Ndenie. History Origins The Agni (or Anyi) people trace their origins to the north, as part of the broader Akan migration from the ancient state of Bonoman. According to oral tradition and historical accounts, Aowin (Agni) groups migrate