The Ga Traditional Council has announced a ban on drumming and noise-making across the Ga State as part of the customary rites leading to the annual Homowo Festival.
The ban will be in effect from Monday, May 12, to Thursday, June 12, 2025.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, March 26, the President of the Ga Dangme Council, Ayikoi Otoo stated that this measure aims to maintain peace, solemnity, and spiritual reflection as the Ga people prepare for the festival, which symbolizes unity, resilience, and thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest.
The Council noted that due to variations in celebration dates across different areas, the Osu, La, Teshie, Nungua, Tema, Kpone, Prampram, and Ningo traditional authorities will announce their own specific dates for the ban after June 12. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and comply with the restrictions once they take effect.
The Homowo Festival is a significant cultural event commemorating the Ga people’s resilience in overcoming famine and their gratitude for a fruitful harvest. The period of silence preceding the festival allows for solemn contemplation before the lively celebrations begin.
The Council emphasized that the ban is legally recognized under Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which upholds customary law and cultural traditions. Article 11(3) affirms the role of customary law within the legal system, while Article 26(1) guarantees communities the right to preserve their cultural heritage.
During the ban, the following restrictions will apply:
1. Religious worship must be confined to designated premises.
2. Noise-making, including clapping, drumming, and the use of tambourines or musical instruments, is prohibited.
3. The use of loudspeakers outside churches, mosques, or for roadside evangelism is banned.
4. Funeral rites and related activities will be suspended until one week after the ban is lifted, with funerals allowed to resume on Friday, June 20, 2025.
The Council stated that to ensure compliance, a task force, in collaboration with the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), local assemblies, and the Ghana Police Service, will oversee enforcement. Any violations of the ban will result in legal consequences.
