A Ghanaian Funeral

Funeral ceremonies in Ghana are significant in the local culture, serving as a distinctive way to bid farewell to departed loved ones. Having attended one this weekend with a friend, it is an event unlike anything I have seen before. The best American equivalent would be the Jazz Funerals of New Orleans.

The individual who passed away was a female in her early 60s, she was a Deaconess at the Presbyterian church, a grandmother, an entrepreneur, and a trained beekeeper. No less than 250 people attended the funeral held on the grounds of the Chief’s Palace. Everyone sat on chairs under trees or open-air tents, that were black and red – the colors associated with funerals. It was a sunny day but there was a nice breeze that made one oblivious to the heat.

Funerals are typically multi-day events that can last from one to several weeks. We have only been in the community for a week, so I am unsure of how long the preparations were for this specific funeral. But based on what I saw adequate preparations occurred. Everything was well laid out, and there were even multiple ‘waiters’ bringing water around to guests.

Funeral attire among guest varied but typically Ghanaians don clothes with symbolic colors denoting their relationship with the deceased. Dark and somber colors, such as black or deep blues, are commonly worn by relatives, while extended family members may opt for white or pastel hues. Some men wore traditional clothes in what I have come to know as the Ntama and Batakari styles.

Ceremonial participation is expected from attendees. Rituals may include singing dirges (laments), reciting prayers, and partaking in processions, offering an opportunity for community members to show their support and express condolences. As a Peace Corps volunteer, we are allowed to participate up to our level of comfort, so I remained more of an observer rather than a participant.

Open casket viewing did occur the day before the funeral. These viewings allow family, friends, and community members to pay their last respects to the deceased and share final moments of closure. In my community, the deceased was placed in a clear coffin –  so one may see the whole body – that was put on display at a family member's house. I did not attend this event, but another volunteer did as the body was displayed at the home of the family he is currently staying with. He stated that while unusual to him it was a beautiful display.

Contrary to the typical somber Western funeral traditions, Ghana funerals are a joyous occasion, ultimately celebrating the life of the departed. There were many celebrations throughout the week and after the funeral. There was a lot of music, dancing, and feasting, emphasizing the belief in the continuity of life after death.

Financial contributions were collected at the funeral. Once the pastor was done with his sermon, he grabbed this big blue bucket and anyone who wanted to donate could walk up and give money. I donated 10.00 cedi, while a significant amount here, equals only 0.80 cents in American money. Once all the donations were complete, the money was counted and in total 10,500 cedis (846 USD) was donated. The money will go to support the family left behind, especially the grandchildren.

After the financial contributions, final prayers were said. The casket – a solid silver by this time – was loaded into a vehicle and transported down the road to the local cemetery, which was within walking distance. Not everyone at the funeral ceremony attended the grave ceremony but it was a short event. The casket was unloaded, and placed in the ground, a few prayers were said, and then individuals using shovels commenced the burying process.

This event provided a unique insight into the cultural fabric of Ghana. I saw things I would never have seen at an American funeral, such as individuals walking around selling puff puff, boiled eggs, meat pies, soda, and juices. The atmosphere reminded me of a fairground mixed with a wedding. Yes, this might seem odd, but I did not feel like I was sitting just behind a coffin or having the bible preached to me. It does make one question and reflect upon the mourning processes and intense emotions associated with funerals back in the States.