Drums Down: AMA Kicks Off One-Month Noise Ban for Homowo

Starting today, May 12, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has officially begun its one-month ban on drumming and noise-making across the city.

The ban will run until June 12 and is part of the traditional preparations for the annual Homowo Festival, a sacred celebration of the Ga people.

The AMA announced the enforcement in a statement signed by its Head of Public Affairs, Gilbert Nii Ankrah.

The directive applies to all individuals, religious groups, and institutions within the city’s jurisdiction, including areas such as Gamashie, Ablekuma West, and parts of Kasoa.

According to the statement, the purpose of the ban is to ensure peace, unity, and spiritual focus as the Ga community enters a period of solemnity and reflection.

“The ban represents a sacred period of spiritual preparation for the Homowo Festival,” the AMA noted, emphasizing the need for quiet and calm during this culturally significant time.

As part of the restrictions, churches are required to hold services indoors without the use of musical instruments or loudspeakers. Similarly, outdoor preaching, street evangelism, and the use of sound systems in public places like pubs and mosques are temporarily prohibited.

The Ga Traditional Council (GTC), which fully supports the move, has also suspended funeral rites and related events during the ban.

The AMA is urging all residents and religious communities to show mutual respect and understanding throughout the period. They are also warning against the use of inflammatory language or any actions that might stir tension among groups.

Authorities say they are counting on the cooperation of the public to preserve the sanctity of the Homowo season and maintain harmony in the capital.

City officials have pledged to ensure that the ban is enforced fairly and respectfully, while also encouraging dialogue and tolerance among the diverse groups that call Accra home.