The Ga Traditional Council has announced that, as part of the customary rites leading to the annual Homowo Festival, there will be a ban on drumming and noise-making across the Ga State from Monday, May 12 to Thursday, June 12. The ban aims to ensure peace, solemnity, and spiritual reflection as the Ga people prepare for the festival, which celebrates unity, resilience, and thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest.
The Council clarified that, due to the varied dates of celebration in different areas, the Osu, La, Teshie, Nungua, Tema, Kpone, Prampram, and Ningo traditional areas will announce their own specific dates for the ban, which will come into effect after June 12. Residents in these areas are urged to stay informed and adhere to the restrictions when they are announced.
“This ban is a sacred tradition that allows us to prepare spiritually and reflect on our heritage as we approach the Homowo Festival,” said a spokesperson for the Ga Traditional Council. “It’s a time for peace, unity, and quiet reflection before the celebratory festivities begin.”The Homowo Festival is a significant occasion for the Ga people, commemorating their history of overcoming famine and expressing gratitude for a fruitful harvest.
The period of silence leading up to the festival provides a moment of solemnity and contemplation before the lively celebrations take place. The Council reminded the public that the ban is legally recognised under the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, which protects the practice of customary law and cultural traditions.
Specifically, Article 11(3) of the Constitution acknowledges customary law as an important part of Ghana’s legal system, while Article 26(1) guarantees the right of communities to preserve their cultural heritage.
During the ban, the following restrictions will be enforced:
- Worship centres must limit their activities to their premises.
- Noise-making, including clapping, the use of tambourines, and other musical instruments, will be prohibited.
- The use of loudspeakers outside church premises, mosques, or for roadside evangelism is banned.
- Funeral rites and related activities will not be allowed during the ban and up to one week after it is lifted. Funerals will be permitted to resume from Friday, 20th June 2025.
A task force, in collaboration with the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), local assemblies, and the Ghana Police Service, will be monitoring compliance. Violations of the ban will result in legal action.
“We encourage all residents, visitors, and institutions to respect this cultural practice,” the spokesperson added. “It helps maintain social harmony and mutual respect, allowing us to preserve the peace within our diverse community.”
The Ga Traditional Council thanked the public for their cooperation in observing this important cultural tradition as the Homowo Festival approaches.
By: Kareen Tei
