The gendered funeral rites and rituals of the Frafra and Dagaaba ethnic groups in upper regions of Ghana

Abstract

This study focuses on the Frafra and Dagaaba ethnic groups in Upper Regions of Ghana (Upper East and Upper West Regions of Ghana) to examine the gendered aspects of mortuary and funeral rites. The study, anchored on the theoretical frameworks of Feminist Anthropology and Postcolonial theory, adopted qualitative approach by deploying Semi structure interview, Focus Group Discussion (FGD), Participant Observation in the data collection exercise. Bolgatanga, Bongo, Tongo, Navrongo, and Sandema in the Upper East Region and Jirapa, Lawra, Takpo, Diffiama, and Nandom in the Upper West Region were the 10 communities where fieldworks were carried out. Additionally, the researchers conducted ethnographic studies, spending two weeks in each of the studied location to get a thorough understanding of regional traditions and rituals. Data on the insights into how gender hierarchies are ingrained in cultural practices and the lasting impacts of colonialism on social structures and cultural norms were gathered.  The study used   these viewpoints to critically analyze how gender roles and power dynamics influenced burial rites in these areas. To ensure the inclusion of key participants   into the study, a purposive sample technique was employed to choose participants who had direct engagement and substantial knowledge of mortuary and funeral activities. For the semi-structured interviews, a total of 30 participants were chosen, 15 from each region. Two traditional priests, one from each region, and seven males and seven females from each region were included to ensure gender balance. Additionally, separate Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with 10–12 participants were held for male and female community members. The results showed that funeral rites were still heavily influenced by traditional gender norms, with men normally occupying authoritative positions in ritual leadership and decision-making and women being confined to emotional and practical duties. However, the study also found that initiatives to challenge long-standing gender hierarchies and larger social changes are driving a shift towards more inclusive practices. According to the research, even in the face of patriarchal norms, greater gender parity in funeral ceremonies could be fostered by targeted policy reforms and enhanced knowledge. In addition to offering greater insights into societal beliefs regarding gendered roles in these rituals, these conversations sought to document gendered viewpoints on funeral practices. The study has multiple implications for practice and policy in the future. In order to foster equal participation in funeral rites and increase inclusivity and respect for all genders, it promotes the adoption of gender-sensitive regulations. In postcolonial African societies, gendered power dynamics and colonial legacies continue to influence cultural practices. This research highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to the intersection of gender, tradition, and power in modern African contexts. Such a strategy could guide the development of policy frameworks that support social justice, gender equity, and the decolonization of regional cultural traditions.