The Homowo Festival, a revered tradition among the Ga communities in Ghana, has commenced with a strong focus on peace and unity in anticipation of the upcoming December 7 elections.
The festival marks a significant cultural observance, beginning on July 6 in Nungua and continuing through various Ga-Dangme communities, including Lante Dzanwe, Ada, Tema, Gamashie, Osu, Teshie, La, Kpone, Prampram, and concluding with Ningo on August 20.
“Homowo” translates to “hooting at hunger,” symbolizing the triumph over past famine and scarcity.
This year, traditional leaders have placed a heightened emphasis on the themes of peace and national cohesion.
The festival has served as a platform for leaders and participants to call for calm and harmony before, during, and after the electoral process.
The Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, and several queen mothers have urged Ghanaians to foster a peaceful electoral environment and avoid violence.
Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II expressed his hopes for a peaceful festival and a smooth election period, emphasizing, “May this festival celebration bring us all peace and prosperity.
Let us love ourselves and ensure positive development in our communities. We don’t want any bloodshed on our land. After the election, let us have our country in one piece.”
The festival’s core activities include vibrant processions, traditional dances, and the ceremonial sprinkling of kpokpoi, a maize and palm oil dish. This act honours ancestors who endured famine and nourishes the spirits of the land.
The tradition also welcomes individuals from other ethnic groups, promoting inclusivity and shared cultural heritage.
Additionally, the festival is thought to have ancestral links to the Jewish Passover feast, both traditions celebrating triumph over adversity and survival.
As Homowo continues, its themes of unity and tradition remain prominent. It offers a collective hope for peace and progress in the year ahead and reinforces the importance of community solidarity during times of potential division.
