Akan Marriage List: How Akan Traditional Marriage is Performed

When it comes to Ghanaian culture, the Akan traditional marriage is one that cant be overlooked. It’s not just the union of two people in love — it’s the coming together of families. A key part of this celebration is the Akan marriage list which holds a deep significance of marriage among the Akan people.

Unlike Western-style engagements, Akan marriages place family at the heart of the process. Therefore, the ceremony reflects respect, tradition, and the joy of two families becoming one. If you want to see a detailed breakdown of the items usually required, check out our post on the Akan Traditional Marriage List.

Do you want to know about how other Ghanaian cultures celebrate love, read our guides on Ewe traditional marriage list and Ga Marriage List(Must-Have Guide) to see how their customs compare to the Akan way.

How Akan Traditional Marriage Is Performed.

Here’s how the ceremony typically unfolds.

1. The Knocking Ceremony (Kokooko): It all begins with a polite “knock,” when the groom’s family visits the bride’s home with drinks to announce their intention. This act shows humility and respect as they seek permission to court and eventually marry the bride.

2. Presentation of the Marriage List: Once the proposal is accepted, the bride’s family presents the Akan marriage list. This list becomes the guide for all preparations leading up to the traditional ceremony.

3. The Traditional Marriage Day: On the day itself, the groom’s family arrives with the required items — beautifully displayed and carried by friends or relatives. Both families are introduced, drinks are exchanged, and prayers are offered for peace and prosperity.

4. Asking the Bride’s Consent: One of the most emotional parts of the ceremony — the bride is called and asked three times if she agrees to marry the groom. Her “yes” seals the union, symbolizing consent and love.

5. Presentation of the Dowry and Gifts: The dowry (Tiri Nsa) and other items are presented, followed by blessings from the elders. In some cases, the couple may exchange rings or symbolic gifts representing eternal love and unity.

6. Celebration and Feast: Once the formalities are done, the real celebration begins! Music, food, laughter, and dancing fill the space as the families rejoice over the new union.

Today, many couples do both the traditional and white weddings. Some host both ceremonies on the same day, while others complete the traditional rites before the church wedding. Families have also modernized the Akan marriage list — many now tailor it to practical items instead of expensive gifts.

Sample of the Akan Marriage List.

Here is an example of how an Akan traditional wedding list looks like. There either maybe an addition or subtraction from the list depending on the family. But mostly, this is how it rolls.