Kofi functions as the story’s protagonist who must change and grow to achieve his goals and overcome his traumatic imprisonment. He is a smart, thoughtful, emotional, fearful, shy, tenderhearted, determined, and curious hero. Kofi shows these character traits throughout his harrowing journey—including compassionate scenes with Ama, asking many questions of Nana Mosi, and being resilient during his imprisonment. His caring nature is shown in the many moments he interacts with Ama. Kofi’s adoration for Ama reveals his emotionally vulnerable side, though he’s sometimes very quiet around her and too afraid to tell her how he feels.

Kofi’s biggest character flaws to overcome are his fearfulness and timidity. In the start, he lacks bravery and confidence. Though he’s small, short, and thin, and feels self-conscious about his body, especially in comparison to his burly cousin, Kofi is an athletic, playful boy. He’s shown as sporty and water-loving by his many trips to the river and his talent for swimming. Still, he never wanted to engage in competition with his cousin, pushed by Ebo to race. Kofi is fearful even when swimming is his talent; when he reconsiders the race after learning his cousin is practicing hard too, his timidity takes over.