Ga Traditional Leaders Commence Annual Seed Ritual Ahead of Homowo Festival
The Ga traditional leaders have begun the annual ritual of planting seeds, known as “Nmaadumo” or “Adunmaa” (planting of millet), marking the start of the Ga calendar and paving the way for the Homowo festival. The ceremony, which commenced on May 6th and will conclude on June 6th, 2024, requires a month of silence and a ban on drumming, noise making, and funerals.
According to Nii Nortey Adumuah, Osiahene of Osu Traditional area, the Nmaadumo ritual is a significant event aimed at promoting peace and progress in the Ga community. He emphasized that the ban on drumming is not ungodly, but rather an opportunity for the Ga people to reflect, pray, and seek the face of their maker.
The seed sowing ritual is performed on various levels, including for pregnant women, farmers, drivers, market women, and others, to pray for their safety and progress in every aspect. During this period, the Ga people are expected to maintain silence and pray for the seeds they have sown, which are expected to germinate and grow in three weeks’ time.
Nii Adumuah cautioned that anyone who disrespects the directives of the traditional leaders will face the wrath of their ancestors. He also urged pastors to encourage their members to participate in the festivities and respect tradition, in order to attract blessings on themselves.
In a related development, Nii Adumuah highlighted the need for traditional leaders to educate the public, including churches, on the culture and traditions of the Ga people, particularly regarding child marriage in Nungua. He emphasized that the measures put in place are not meant to be a form of dispute, but rather a way to promote understanding and respect for tradition.
The Ga traditional leaders have urged everyone to adhere to the directives and respect the traditional practices, ensuring a peaceful and successful Homowo festival.
