Know the Traditional Wedding Custom Of Akuapem People

Few weeks ago I wrote on the traditional wedding of the EWE and AKAN people from Ghana, the article spark up interesting comments and observations from readers especially those from Ghana. One recurrent observation is the door knocking ceremony done by the groom and his people. I want to say thank you all for your comments. Today I will be writing on the traditional wedding customs of the Akuapem people.

The Akuapem people are multi-ethnic; they are a combination of Guans (volta-camoe speaking) and Akan people (kwa-speaking). The Akuapem are the most humble set of people in Ghana, they are also peaceful and respectful too. There is a saying about the Akuapem people, “they are the only people that apologizes to you even when they want to insult you”. For instance, when you annoy an Akuapem man, he will say “I am very sorry but you are a fool”. Hahahaha!!! Funny isn’t it.

TRADITIONAL WEDDING CUSTOMS AMONG THE AKUAPEMS’

When a young man finds a woman he wants to marry, he discusses with his parent about it. The parent sends out search to look into the girl’s character and family history. Satisfied by the findings the man’s parent reaches out to girl’s parent through a spokesperson about their son intention. A bottle of gin is presented, the girl’s parent will discharge the messenger, and the reply to their quest will be communicated to them in due cause.

The parent of the bride carries out their own investigation about the man’s family. When the girl has agreed to marry the man and her parent also satisfied with the outcome of their search, words are sent to the in-law through the spokesperson for a date fix for both families to formally meet each other.  

On the said date the groom present a bottle of gin and some money, this act is known as the door knocking – officially proposing to court her. 

WEDDING CELEBRATION

The wedding event is adorned with beautiful colors and gorgeous Akuapem clothing/attire. There are a lot to eat and drink, the whole place filled with people both young and old.

The bride will sit on a wooden stool at the side of her parent and her paternal uncle; it’s the duty of her paternal uncle to give her hand out in marriage on behalf of her father. The paternal uncle will ask the bride; let’s say her name is Jane, “Jane should we accept these drinks this young man is offering us, to take you as his wife?”When she says yes to the hearing of the large gathering, there are loud cheers and jubilations. The uncle will declare that they have accepted the drinks and dowry/bride-price presented to them by the groom. A young uncle of hers will hold her hand and lead her to the groom; at that point women in the wedding ceremony start singing (for the bride) and cheering.

BRIDE-PRICE

The Akuapem are very modest people and they have strong Christian doctoring (Presbyterian). The bible and church hymn is very important to them. Here are list of items for any prospective groom to consider when marrying an Akuapem lady.

A Presby hymn book (Akuapem Twi version)

Akuapem Bible

2 tubers of yam (for otoh – mashed yam and palm oil meal)

1 basket cocoyam

2 paint buckets of slimy snails

6 bunches of apem plantain

2 sets of “silver” for making abe-nkwan

Bottle of schnapps

2 create of beer and soft drink (soda)

A set of wax print cloth

Jewelry

Fine silk head tie

12 yards of quality wax print (6yards each for mother and father)

Some money for her brothers