Every year, the streets of Accra come alive with drumming, dancing, and the rhythmic chant of ancestral songs during the Homowo Festival—a vibrant celebration observed by the Ga people of Ghana’s Greater Accra Region. “Homowo” means “to hoot at hunger,” and the festival is a powerful tribute to survival, resilience, and the triumph over famine.
A Festival Rooted in History
According to Ga oral tradition, there was once a severe famine that devastated their community. Through hard work, unity, and careful planning, the people overcame the hardship. Homowo was born as a way to remember the struggle and to celebrate the bounty that followed.
What to Expect
Homowo usually takes place between August and September, depending on the Ga traditional calendar. The highlight of the celebration is the sprinkling of “kpokpoi”—a special dish made from fermented cornmeal and palm oil—by elders and chiefs. The food is offered to the ancestors and then shared among family members and visitors.
The festival is also marked by:
Traditional drumming and dancing
Durbar of chiefs, where local leaders wear regal kente cloth and hold public processions
Family reunions and community feasts
Noisemaking bans leading up to the festival, symbolizing reflection and preparation
A Cultural Must-See
Homowo is more than a festival—it’s a window into the spirit and identity of the Ga people. It reflects their belief in community, remembrance, and the importance of honoring the past to guide the future. For visitors to Accra, experiencing Homowo offers a rare chance to witness living tradition and participate in one of Ghana’s most meaningful cultural events.
