Homowo, which translates to “hooting at hunger” in the Ga language, is a vibrant and ancient festival celebrated by the Ga people of Ghana.
It is a time-honored tradition commemorating the migration of the Ga people from the north to their present location. It is characterized by a rich array of cultural practices, rituals, and ceremonies. Held annually in May, Homowo is a joyous celebration that brings together the Ga community to feast, dance, and make merry while also paying homage to their ancestors and gods.
According to Ga tradition, Homowo commemorates the migration of the Ga people from the north to their present location. The festival is said to have originated when the Ga people were faced with a severe famine, and their priests and priestesses prayed to the gods for relief. The gods answered their prayers, and the Ga people were able to harvest a bountiful crop, which they celebrated with feasting, singing, and dancing.
Some of the significance of Homowo are;It commemorates the Ga people’s migration and settlement in their present location,It celebrates the triumph of the Ga people over adversity, particularly the famine that threatened their survival,It is a time for the Ga people to come together, strengthen social bonds, and reaffirm their cultural identity,It is an opportunity for the Ga people to honor their ancestors and gods, and to seek their blessings and protection.
Also,the Homowo has its traditions and customs during this festival which includes the peparations for Homowo.This begins several weeks before the festival. The Ga people prepare traditional foods, such as kpokpoi and palm nut soup, and decorate their homes
with traditional Ga artifacts.
Overall, the history of Kpokpoi is a testament to the Ga people’s resourcefulness, creativity, and cultural richness.
In continuation comes the Festival Day.On the day of the festival, the Ga people gather at the palace of the Ga Mantse (king) or at a designated festival grounds. The festival begins with a procession of the Ga people, led by the Ga Mantse and his elders, to the festival grounds. The Ga people wear their traditional cloth and adorn themselves with beads and other ornaments.
Moving forward with the Sprinkling of Kpokpoi.The highlight of the festival is the sprinkling of kpokpoi, which is done by the Ga Mantse and his elders.One may ask ,what is Kpokpoi??
It is a Ga dish made from a fermented corn dough.It is believed to have originated from the Ga people’s ancestors, who migrated from the north to their present location in the 13th century. The dishes likely created as a way to preserve corn, which was a staple crop.The fermentation process used to make Kpokpoi is believed to have been learned from the Ga people’s ancestors, who observed the natural fermentation process of corn in the wild.Kpokpoi became a symbol of abundance and fertility in Ga culture, as it was made from corn, which was a staple crop and a symbol of prosperity. Kpokpoi was traditionally served during special occasions and festivals, including Homowo, which commemorates the Ga people’s migration and settlement.
The kpokpoi is sprinkled as a symbol of abundance and fertility, and is believed to bring blessings and prosperity to the Ga people.After the sprinkling of kpokpoi, the Ga people perform traditional dances, such as the Kpanlogo,Gota and Kizito. These dances are accompanied by traditional Ga music and drumming.
The Ga people also offer sacrifices to their gods and ancestors during the festival. These sacrifices are believed to appease the gods and ancestors and to seek their blessings and protection.The festival then ends with feasting and merriment. The Ga people gather to eat, drink, and make merry, and to celebrate the joy and abundance of the festival.
Homowo is a significant festival in the Ga calender.Today, Homowo is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor, both in Ghana and in the diaspora. The festival has evolved over time, incorporating modern elements while still retaining its traditional essence. It is a time for the Ga people to connect with their heritage, celebrate their culture, and strengthen their sense of community.
CINDY NAAKIE NUBUOR(AN INTERN FROM KNUST) | CORPORATE AFFAIRS | GHANA TOURISM AUTHORITY.
