Edmund Smith-Asante launches Abrokyire Abrabo book in Accra

Edmund Smith-Asante, a retired journalist and former Regional Page Editor of the Daily Graphic, has officially launched his new book, "Abrokyire Abrabo: My Wahala in Germany," during a ceremony held in Accra. The 30-chapter autobiographical travelogue provides a detailed account of the author’s experiences during a three-week journalism training program in Berlin in 2009. The publication is an expansion of a popular series that was originally serialized in the Saturday edition of the Daily Graphic, bringing those personal accounts together into a single, cohesive narrative for readers.

The book is unique in its bilingual presentation, featuring both English and German versions. This decision was made to ensure that the African perspective on international travel and the specific cultural barriers encountered in Europe could be shared directly with German-speaking audiences as well as Ghanaian readers. During the launch event, which was attended by several prominent journalists and professional associates, the work was celebrated for its contribution to Ghanaian literature and its honest portrayal of the complexities of life in a foreign country, often referred to as "Abrokyire."

Smith-Asante used the occasion to emphasize the importance of documentation, urging others to record their life experiences for the benefit of future generations. He also offered practical advice to prospective travelers, suggesting that they should prepare adequately for the realities of life abroad rather than being swayed solely by the allure of travel. By highlighting both the challenges and the cultural shocks he faced, "Abrokyire Abrabo" serves as both a guide and a cautionary reflection for those seeking to live or work in Europe, balancing the dream of travel with practical insights.