Ghana’s Ga Traditional Council Cracks Down on Noisy Churches, Summons 15 for Violating Ban

The Ga Traditional Council in Ghana  has summoned 15 churches, including prominent ones like Calvary Baptist Church and Lighthouse Chapel, for allegedly violating the annual ban on drumming and noise-making in Ga Mashie. The ban, which started on May 12, 2025, and will run until June 12, 2025, is part of customary rites leading to the celebration of the Homowo Festival, a significant event for the Ga people.

The Ban and Its Purpose

The Ga Traditional Council imposes the ban annually to maintain peace, harmony, and spiritual reflection as the Ga people prepare for the Homowo Festival. This festival commemorates resilience, unity, and thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest. According to the Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the ban is a sacred tradition that upholds the country’s customary laws and cultural practices, recognized under Article 11(3) of the 1992 Constitution.

Why the Churches Were Summoned

Taskforce leader Asafoatse Mankatta confirmed that the churches were summoned for violating the directive by clapping during services. “We have great respect for Calvary Baptist Church, but we were surprised to see them violating the orders of the Traditional Council; they were making noise as if there was nothing at stake,” he said. During the ban, churches are allowed to sing but prohibited from clapping and drumming. Those with soundproof structures that prevent noise from escaping might be exempt.

Consequences for Non-Compliance

The churches are expected to appear before the Council on Thursday, May 22, or face dire consequences. Some churches reportedly refused to accept the summons letters. This isn’t the first time the Ga Traditional Council has taken action against noisy churches. In a similar incident, the Council’s task force seized musical instruments from a church for violating the noise ban.

Reactions and Implications

The development has sparked reactions on social media, with some users expressing support for the Ga Traditional Council’s actions. One user commented, “Let’s respect our culture and stop this hypocrisy. A statement was released about noise, so why?” Others questioned the relevance of traditional practices in modern times. The incident highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing cultural traditions with modern practices.

The Importance of Cultural Sensitivity

The Ga Traditional Council’s actions underscore the importance of cultural sensitivity and respect for traditional practices. As the Ga people prepare for the Homowo Festival, the Council’s efforts aim to ensure that the period is observed with the requisite solemnity and respect. The outcome of the churches’ appearance before the Council will likely set a precedent for future compliance with the noise ban.

Key Points

Churches Summoned: 15 churches, including Calvary Baptist Church and Lighthouse Chapel
Reason for Summons: Violating the ban on drumming and noise-making
Expected Action: Churches must appear before the Ga Traditional Council on May 22
Consequences: Dire consequences for non-compliance, including possible seizure of musical instruments
Cultural Significance: The ban is part of customary rites leading to the Homowo Festival, a significant cultural event for the Ga people.

Source: Africa Publicity