Akoko is at the centre of the change process in the society

Drawing illustrations from Margaret Ogula’s The River and the Source, write an essay proving that Akoko is at the centre of the change process in the society of the River and the Source.

Change is inevitable and cannot be preserved.  In the River and the Source, Akoko becomes instrumental in spearheading the change.

Disputes were solved by the Council of Jodongo, Akoko goes home after the accusations by her mother-in-law that she had bewitched Owuor Kembo. Elders from both sides settle the dispute however, when Otieno plunders her property, Akoko makes history by taking a pioneering journey to Kisumu to seek justice from the Jorochere (the white man) through her, the whole of Sakwa experiences the impact of the white man’s rule.

Traditional worship, the community believed in were God of the eye of the rising sun.  However, Akoko advises Nyabera to venture into the hitherto the unknown world of Christianity.  This ushers enormous changes in Akoko’s lineage.

Marriage was mandatory in the traditional setting.  However, with Akoko’s blessing, Owour Sino adapts celibacy which is unheard off traditionally.  He becomes a catholic priest. Ironically Owour Sino was the one who was supposed to take over the chieftaincy when he will become of age but his grandmother Akoko Advices him otherwise.

Informal education was the order of the day but with Akoko’s encouragement, Awiti pursues education which she rightly believes is the direction that life is taking.  She reprimands Nyabera who tries to resist Nyabera’s departure to a teachers training college.

Bride price was mandatory for any marriage to take place in the traditional setting.  However, to the dismay of Oyange Silwal and Mark Sigu’s party Akoko asks for only a token bride-piece setting a precedent which is a clear break with tradition.

Otieno, Owour Kembo brother has several wives whom he treats as slut but Owuor Kembo does not marry a second wife for the first time in their history.  He resists the pressure of taking on a second wife from his mother and council of elders because he finds fulfilment in his wife Akoko.

Conclusion

Clearly, Akoko is among the few African women who embraced change without demur.  She seems to understand that change is mandatory and people must keep pace with it.