The Ga Traditional Council has officially declared that this year’s annual ban on drumming and noisemaking will take effect from Monday (12 May) to Thursday (12 June) as part of spiritual preparations for the Homowo Festival.

The ban, a deeply rooted tradition, aims to maintain peace, solemnity, and spiritual reflection among the Ga people in anticipation of the festival, which symbolizes unity, resilience, and gratitude for a successful harvest.

The Homowo Festival is a major event in Ga culture, commemorating their ancestors’ triumph over famine and celebrating a season of abundance. The period of silence leading up to the festival allows for solemnity before the vibrant celebrations begin.

Speaking on behalf of the Ga Traditional Council, the President of the Ga Dangbe Council, Nii Ayikoi Otoo emphasized the significance of the ban:

The former Attorney-General used the occasion to remind the public that the ban is backed by Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which upholds customary laws and traditions, adding that strict measures will be in place to ensure compliance.

Nii Ayikoi Otoo, a former ambassador to Canada, said a task force, working in collaboration with the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), local assemblies, and the Ghana Police Service, will ensure full compliance