The Ga Traditional Council has officially announced a month-long ban on drumming and noise-making, effective from Monday, May 12 to Thursday, June 12, 2025, as part of customary rites in preparation for the annual Homowo Festival.

The announcement, signed by the Ga Mantse and President of the Ga Traditional Council, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, urges residents, religious bodies, and institutions within the Ga State to strictly observe the ban, which is a sacred tradition marking a period of spiritual reflection, peace, and solemnity.

The ban, a key cultural practice of the GaDangme people, precedes the celebration of Homowo—a festival commemorating resilience, unity, and gratitude for a bountiful harvest.

The Council reminded the public that this tradition is legally protected under the 1992 Constitution of Ghana. Article 11(3) recognises customary law as part of Ghana’s legal system, while Article 26(1) guarantees the rights of communities to preserve and practice their cultural heritage.

In addition to the general ban across the Ga State, the Council noted that other GaDangme traditional areas, including Osu, La, Teshie, Nungua, Tema, Kpone, Prampram, and Ningo will announce separate bans after June 12 to reflect their own timelines for Homowo.

Residents in those areas are advised to take note and comply accordingly.

To ensure full compliance, the Ga Traditional Council has outlined the following regulations:

All religious services must remain within enclosed premises.

Noise-making activities, including hand clapping, the use of tambourines, and musical instruments, are strictly prohibited.

Loudspeakers must not be placed outside church or mosque premises.

Roadside evangelism and the use of megaphones or sound systems in open spaces are banned.

Funeral activities are suspended during the ban and will only resume from Friday, June 20, 2025—one week after the official lifting of the restrictions.

A task force has been deployed in collaboration with REGSEC, the Ghana Police Service, and other security agencies, as well as Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), to monitor adherence and prosecute violators.

The Council called on all residents, visitors, and institutions to respect the ban, emphasising that it plays a crucial role in promoting social harmony and mutual respect within Ghana's multicultural society.

“We appreciate the cooperation of all as we observe this significant tradition,” the statement read. “Let us work together to uphold our heritage and maintain peace.”