[By Faria Shaikh]
Just two weeks in Accra, but feels like a lifetime of memories. One of the bigger highlights of my stay has been the vibrant and bustling markets in Accra. They remind me of back home in Pakistan. Visiting local spots like Wild Gecko, Artisans Alliance, the Cultural Centre, and the Aburi Craft Market has been an adventure!
Over the last two weekends, we explored these markets; each filled with colorful displays, enticing aromas, and a wide range of sounds you can hear. One cannot help but be drawn to the beautiful items on display at these markets – handbags, jewelry, clothes, décor, shoes, clothes, and of course a lot of souvenirs that remind you forever of this beautiful place.
Coming from Pakistan and being an expert at bargaining (or at least I’d like to think so), I decided to try my luck and skills here in Accra. I was well armed with a few key phrases I had picked up, thanks to Professor Leslie and Professor Senyo. I approached a stall with a stunning “magic handbag” that caught my eye. The vendor quoted the price that seemed a little high; it was 100 Cedis for a bag ($6 USD). I knew this was a great “daabi, daabi, daabi” moment.
“Daabi, daabi, daabi” means “no, no, no” in Twi and conveys a refusal of an idea or suggestion. The vendor smiles, appreciating my attempt to speak the local language, and said, “ɛyɛ sɛn?” asking how much I’d like to pay. I responded “30?” The seller started laughing, thinking I was joking. Of course!
30 Cedis for a handbag that was supposed to be 100, seems like a joke…?
But, I wasn’t done yet. I had heard that persistence was key in bargaining, so I added, “Mepacho teso,” meaning, “reduce it more.” This phrase seemed to work like magic, as the vendor asked me to pay 80 Cedis instead of 100 this time. Not happy with the deal, I started walking out of the store, saying “Bye byeuo,” meaning, “bye, bye,” in Twi. The seller tried to stop me, “how about 70?” I said, “how about three for 150?” The seller smiled and agreed. I paid 150 Cedis ($9.68) for three magic handbags! Not a bad deal. “Daabi daabi daabi” magic worked! The vendor reminded me that they consider me their “sister,” and that’s the only reason I got this price.
Encouraged by this success, I continued my shopping spree, using my newfound bargaining skills at every turn. I was able to buy a range of items, from jewelry pieces to cloth dresses. Each negotiation was a fun exchange, often ending with making new “siblings” which seems to be the custom here in Ghana.
Another memorable purchase was a set of handcrafted bracelets. The vendor initially quoted a price that seemed to be very high. With a friendly smile, I started the negotiation with “daabi daabi daabi.“ After a bit of back and forth, and few minutes spent bargaining, we settled on a price (70 Cedis, $4.5) that made us both happy.
Although bargaining is fun, and usually ends up in a good deal, it is beyond just getting a good price. It is a form of cultural exchange, that helps in connecting with the local people. Each interaction, each smile, each conversation is more than just a transaction. It teaches me about the nuances of Ghanaian culture and helps me build rapport and “sisters” and “brothers” along the way.
By the end of the shopping spree, or, “retail” therapy, I had a bag full of beautiful gifts and a heart full of memories. The market experience, with its colorful environment and friendly vendors helped me connect with the local culture here. The lessons learned and connections made during these market visits have enriched my understanding and appreciation of Ghanaian culture. Who knew a simple “daabi, daabi, daabi” could reduce the price to half! I can’t wait to use “daabi, daabi, daabi” in my future adventures!