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Ga Council Bans Drumming & Noise May 12-June 12 for Homowo

Ga Traditional Council Announces May 12 – June 12 Ban on Drumming and Noise-Making Ahead of Homowo Festival

The Ga Traditional Council has formally announced that Monday, May 12, through Thursday, June 12, will be the time for this year’s annual prohibition on drumming and making noise. An atmosphere of tranquility, solemnity, and spiritual introspection is fostered among the Ga people by this traditional practice, which is essential to the Homowo Festival preparations.

A deeply ingrained cultural celebration, the Homowo Festival honors the Ga people’s victory over famine and their appreciation for a bountiful harvest. Silence before the celebration promotes solidarity, spiritual preparation, and a reverent adherence of custom.

Speaking on behalf of the Ga Traditional Council, Sylvester Parker Allotey emphasized the importance of the ban, describing it as “a sacred tradition that allows us to prepare spiritually and reflect on our heritage before the Homowo Festival celebrations. It’s a time for peace, unity, and quiet reflection.”

Strict enforcement of the prohibition will be implemented in all Ga communities; following June 12, specific localities, including Osu, La, Teshie, Nungua, Tema, Kpone, Prampram, and Ningo, are anticipated to declare their enforcement dates. It is advised that local residents stay informed and abide by the law.

The 1992 Ghanaian Constitution, which recognizes customary law as a component of the nation’s legal system, supports the ban, the Ga Traditional Council reminded the public. While Article 26(1) ensures that communities have the right to protect their cultural heritage, Article 11(3) acknowledges customs.

A task group made up of representatives from the Ghana Police Service, local assemblies, and the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) would supervise compliance with the mandate. There will be legal repercussions for violators.

During the one-month period, the following restrictions will be strictly enforced:

Worship centers must confine their activities to their premises.
Noise-making, including drumming, clapping, and the use of tambourines and musical instruments, is strictly prohibited.
Loudspeakers used for church services, mosque calls to prayer, and roadside evangelism must be silenced.
Funeral rites and related activities will be suspended until one week after the ban is lifted, with funerals resuming on Friday, June 20, 2025.

The Council expressed its appreciation for the public’s cooperation in previous years and urged all residents, visitors, and institutions to respect the directive. “Observing this practice maintains social harmony and mutual respect, allowing us to preserve peace within our diverse community,” the spokesperson reiterated.

The Homowo Festival remains a time-honored celebration of resilience and gratitude, and adherence to the noise ban is an essential aspect of preserving this cherished cultural heritage.

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