GHANA: Elaborate Asante ceremonies

Among the Asante in Ghana, ayie or funerals count among the biggest social events. Employees may leave work on a Thursday to travel to a distant funeral where the celebration of the deceased’s life may last several days.

These elaborate ceremonies, which may be years in the planning, are a way by which matrilineal social units, abusas, gain prestige by the elaborateness of the festivities. One entrepreneur says, “Outsiders find it hard to believe, but this is where we Ghanaians may form an important professional connection or meet a future spouse. Companies are expected to contribute towards the funeral expenses of employees and their immediate relatives.”

Ghanaian funerals throughout the world typically begin at 10pm with religious services. By 2am the dance floors and bars are in full swing and festivities last through the night.

Have you experienced one of these elaborate ceremonies? What was it like?