Accra Metropolitan Assembly officially commences annual ban on drumming and noise-making

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has commence the annual one-month ban on drumming and noise-making.

The ban which began on May 12 is scheduled to end on June 12 as part of preparations for the Ga people's traditional Homowo Festival.

In a statement signed by Gilbert Nii Ankrah, Head of Public Affairs at the AMA, the Assembly announced that the ban applies to all residents, institutions, and communities within its jurisdiction, including Gamashie, Ablekuma West, parts of Kasoa, and areas surrounding the AMA Head Office.

Describing the period as sacred, the AMA emphasized that the ban is intended to foster solemnity, reflection, and spiritual readiness ahead of the Homowo Festival—one of the most revered cultural events of the Ga community.

The directive prohibits the use of musical instruments during church services and bans the use of loudspeakers and sound systems in churches, mosques, pubs, and during street evangelism.

Additionally, the Ga Traditional Council (GTC) has suspended all funeral-related activities during the ban period.

“The ban represents a sacred period of solemnity, reflection, and spiritual preparation for the upcoming Homowo Festival,” the AMA stated.

The Assembly further appealed to all residents to observe the restrictions with tolerance and mutual respect to maintain peace and national cohesion throughout the period.

“We urge all residents to exercise restraint and avoid inflammatory or disrespectful comments that may disrupt the peace,” the statement added.

The annual ban is a deeply rooted tradition observed by the Ga people as they prepare to celebrate Homowo—a festival that symbolizes the triumph over hunger and the promotion of unity among the Ga community.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith