Editorial
Respect Ga Traditional Council’s ban on noise-making in Accra
The Ga Traditional Council (GTC) has announced a month-long ban on drumming and noise-making in Accra as part of preparations for the celebration of this year’s Ga Homowo Festival.
According to the GTC, the ban begins today and ends on Tuesday, June 13, 2023.
The ban is an annual traditional rite that precedes the celebration of the Homowo Festival, referred to as “Odadaa” by the chiefs and people of Ga Mashie, and which requires silence and tranquility for more than a month after the ritual planting of the crops.
Some communities the ban affects are Ga Mashie, Korle Gonno, Dansoman, Sakaman, Malam, Gbawe, Bortianor, Ngleshie-Amanfro, Kokrobite, Oshiyie, Obaakrowa, Kofi Kwei, Ahida, Papase, Pokuase, Amasaman, Sapeiman, Achimota, among others.
Within the period of the ban, no one or no group of people should engage in any form of noise-making, including the use of loud speakers for music or preaching in the various communities.
This is in line with the beliefs of the traditional Ga people. It is, therefore, important for each and every person to respect the ban.
Adhering to the ban is good because it will show that we are tolerant of one another in spite of our religious differences.
No individual or group of people should attempt to enforce the ban in their own way; otherwise, those who are opposed to the ban may also want to defend themselves against its enforcement. This will result in chaos or disturbances that may lead to injuries or even deaths.
In the past, this has been the situation, and it has not helped any person or group of people in the country. For this reason, we need to maintain peace to ensure that Ghana as a whole becomes the winner.
In this regard, traditional believers should not take the law into their hands and brutalise any perceived offenders as the result will be disastrous.
They must work closely with the police, who are enforcers of the law. Peace must prevail, and this is what we want to see. Peace is paramount to the socioeconomic development of this country.
We, therefore, cannot compromise peace. Let us respect one another when it comes to religious beliefs, for peace to prevail in the country
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie
