Ga Mantse calls for inclusion of traditional rites in National Thanksgiving Day

Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, has called for the formal inclusion of traditional religious practices in the upcoming National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, stressing that such integration is vital to reflect Ghana’s complete spiritual identity.

Speaking during a visit from the Planning Committee of the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving to his residence, the Ga Mantse emphasized that traditional rites, especially those of the Ga State, have long played a crucial role in maintaining the nation’s spiritual balance.

The national event, scheduled for July 1, will follow the theme, ‘Reflect, Reset, and Renew for National Prosperity.’ The day’s program includes a Christian service at the State House forecourt from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m., followed by Muslim prayers at the National Mosque at noon. Simultaneous services will also take place across all 16 regions and 261 districts.

While expressing gratitude for Ghana’s peace and stability, Nii Tsuru II cautioned that thanksgiving without acknowledging traditional faiths would be incomplete.

“We are to be very grateful and thankful to God. All things take their source from Him, but one thing I find missing is the inclusion of the traditional faiths. You need that input.

 “There are things we do on this land that nobody sees, but these are the very things that have held the four corners of the nation, especially here in the capital,” the Ga Mantse said.

He explained that traditional customs such as the annual ban on drumming and noise-making are not merely cultural expressions but sacred spiritual acts—periods of fasting and solemnity dedicated to the land and ancestors.

“Before every Easter, there is Lent. Before every Ramadan, there is a fast. Before every prayer, there is silence. These are sacred patterns,” the Ga Mantse noted.

Nii Tsuru II also addressed common misconceptions, noting that many wrongly label these practices as fetishism, but he stressed their role in fostering unity and spiritual learning among different faiths.

He insisted that before the official Christian service begins, a traditional thanksgiving to the spirits and forefathers of the land should take place.

Highlighting the central role of the Ga people in Ghana’s spiritual and political life, the Ga Mantse stated: “It is not by chance that we have a peaceful Ghana. The Ga State plays a major part in that peace, that is because of our spiritual heart. You may never understand it fully, but it is real.”

Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, Chairman of the Planning Committee, underscored the spiritual importance of the event, which was designated as a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving by President Nana Akufo-Addo. He praised the President’s recognition of traditional rulers’ critical role in sustaining national peace and unity, particularly during politically tense times.

“His Excellency believes Ghana is an oasis of peace in a turbulent continent not by accident, but by divine providence,” Mr. Ankrah said.

He also urged Ghanaians to maintain political neutrality during the event, encouraging participants to wear white or national colors instead of political party paraphernalia.

“This is not about any political party, it is about Ghana, it is about thanking God for how far He has brought us,” Mr. Ankrah added..