Some traditionalists have called on the government to set aside special holidays to commemorate traditional religion in Ghana.
The secretary of the Afetorku Gbodzi Shrine, Sam Davis Davor, made this passionate appeal during the annual festival of the shrine held in Dagbamate in the Akatsi South District.
In a welcome address on behalf of the high priest, he indicated that traditionalists in Ghana also deserve a holiday, just like Muslims and Christians.
Mr. Davor said they also contribute to the country’s development and, as such, need attention.
According to the traditionalist, African religion has and will always play a vital role in the development of every country, hence the need to have a public holiday and have their traditional medicines and association well recognized.
He said this would help boost confidence in the traditional belief system.
The festival coincided with the Easter celebration in which an ultra-modern chief’s palace was commissioned.
The occasion was also used to commend the government for upgrading the health center in the community.
More than half of Ghana’s population are Christians, about one-fifth are Muslims, and a small segment adheres to indigenous traditional religions, according to the 2021 population census.
Christian celebrations of Christmas and Easter are recognized as national holidays.
In the past, vacation periods have been planned around these occasions, thus permitting both Christians and others living away from home to visit friends and family members.
Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, is observed by Muslims. The celebration of these significant days as prescribed by Islam is also commemorated with public holidays.