The Akan people are one of the largest ethnic groups in Ghana. They host rich wedding ceremonies. In the An Akan language, marriage is known as “Awareɛ” and that is why most times you will hear the popular phrase “Aware3 kwan wa” meaning marriage is a long journey. The traditional marriage often referred to as Engagement is recognized in Ghana. This ceremony beautifully blends rituals and family involvement passed down through generations. A significant part of this ceremony is the traditional marriage list and the Akan tribe isn’t exempted from this tradition.
Ghanaian law recognizes customary marriage and requires performing traditional marriage rites, including the payment of the bride price, before registering the marriage. The groom presents the Akan traditional marriage list, also known as the engagement list, to the bride’s family before registering the marriage.
This list symbolizes respect, gratitude, and the joining of two families. One size does not fit all. A list therefore is dependent on the brides family and a family may either forego the list, ask for more or less. They draft it and give it to the groom and his family weeks or even months ahead of the ceremony.
Sample of the Akan Traditional 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.
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The Akan traditional wedding list is a reflection of the deep respect and appreciation between the two families. So, whether you are planning to marry into an Akan community or simply appreciate their traditions, the wedding list is a beautiful reminder of the values and unity that marriage brings.
