Tema: The Tema Traditional Council has announced the 2026 customary ban on drumming and noisemaking within the Tema Traditional Area ahead of the annual Homowo Festival. The ban will take effect from Friday, May 1, to Saturday, May 23, 2026.
According to Ghana News Agency, a statement issued by the Tema Stool and the Traditional Council stated that the directive applies to individuals, institutions, churches, mosques, and all social gatherings within the traditional area. During this period, burial and funeral ceremonies, as well as any form of noisemaking, will not be permitted.
The statement explained that the directive is part of customary rites performed to usher in the Homowo Festival. Communities affected by the ban include Tema Manhean (Newtown) and other communities under Tema, Ashaiman, Zeenu, Kubekro, Adigon, Saasabi, Klagon, Adjei Kojo, Sakumono, and Adjeiman.
The Council urged residents and institutions within the affected areas to comply with the directive to ensure the successful performance of the traditional rites. It also called on the public to cooperate to avoid confrontations between representatives of the traditional authorities and community members during the period.
The Homowo Festival is an annual celebration observed by the Ga people to commemorate their history and cultural heritage. Programmes lined up for this year's festival cleanup exercises include Lala Kanemo (reading of Kple songs' lyrics), among others.