Eroding Ghanaian Traditions -Rethinking the One Week Celebration

In Ghana, funeral customs are deeply rooted in tradition, showing the importance of family, community, and respect for those who have passed. But over time, these meaningful practices are slowly losing their true essence. A good example is the reported passing of legendary musician Daddy Lumba on July 26, 2025. His case highlights how the “One Week Anniversary,” once a simple and respectful gathering, has changed a lot from what it was meant to be.

Traditionally, the One-Week Celebration was a solemn occasion, occurring precisely one week after the death of an individual. It provided a space for family and friends to gather and honour the deceased, emphasizing community support during a time of grief. However, in recent years, this once-hallowed gathering has switched into a lavish affair, diluting its original purpose. For example, organizing the One Week Anniversary for a figure as significant as Daddy Lumba, to be held on August 30, 2025—over a month after his passing—reveals a glaring departure from tradition. This raises the question: if the anniversary takes place a month later, why is it still termed a "One Week Anniversary"?

The transition of this event into an extravagant celebration, often resembling a buffet party, has turned it into a financial burden for many families. Instead of focusing on mourning and remembrance, the emphasis has shifted toward display and opulence. This trend is troubling, as it appears that the deeper values of respect, reflection, and community support are being overshadowed by an obsession with spectacle. It’s not uncommon for families to spend exorbitant amounts of money on elaborate events that, regrettably, transform the mournful gathering into a competition of who can host the most extravagant send-off.

Moreover, this shift in culture isn’t confined to Ghana alone; it has extended to the diaspora communities. Ghanaians living abroad, particularly in more developed countries, often find themselves torn between two worlds. Witnessing moderate funerals in their host countries, many are tempted to replicate these extravagant celebrations from home. This imitation not only stretches their financial resources but also perpetuates the cycle of lavish funerals that are fast becoming a distinctive feature of Ghanaian culture, even outside its borders.

The increasing extravagance of funerals—sometimes stretched over multiple days and incorporating performances, food, and entertainment—highlights a collective loss of focus on the significant cultural heritage of funerals. The One Week Anniversary has lost its traditional values and meaning, evolving into a celebratory event rather than a moment for solemn reflection. While it is true that culture evolves over time, this evolution should not come at the expense of core values that enrich community life and preserve the essence of who we are.

If we are to be honest, the direction in which Ghanaian funeral customs are headed is not just regressive, but (Scheiße) close to losing our cultural heritage entirely. It is crucial that, as a society, we acknowledge and address this trend, focusing on uplifting practices that honour our traditions rather than discarding them in favour of ostentation and materialism.

Cultural evolution is essential for development, but it is equally vital to retain the foundational values that offer guidance and meaning to our lives. Let us reclaim the beauty of our customs by filtering out practices that do not aid our societal growth. By returning to the heart of what makes our traditions meaningful, we can honour the memories of the departed while ensuring that our cultural heritage remains intact for future generations. After all, as we navigate the complexities of modern life, it is our traditions that ground us and provide a sense of identity and belonging.

By Desmond John Beddy