The Ohum Festival is a traditional cultural celebration primarily observed by the Akuapem and Akyem ethnic groups in the Eastern Region of Ghana.
The Communities Behind Ohum
This significant festival is deeply rooted in the traditions of two distinct Fante-Akan communities residing in Ghana's Eastern Region. Each group observes the festival with its unique timing and customs, though the core essence remains the celebration of harvest and thanksgiving.
Here's a breakdown of the primary celebrants:
| Celebrating Group | Region | Typical Celebration Period |
|---|---|---|
| Akuapem | Eastern Region, Ghana | Sundays in December or January |
| Akyem | Eastern Region, Ghana | Tuesdays/Wednesdays in September or October |
Understanding the Celebration Periods
While both the Akuapem and Akyem communities celebrate the Ohum Festival, their specific timing varies:
- Akyem Celebration: For the Akyem people, the Ohum Festival typically takes place on a Tuesday or Wednesday in either September or October. The exact date can depend on when the Ohumkan festival was observed by the Akyems.
- Akuapem Celebration: The Akuapem people, on the other hand, celebrate the Ohum Festival on a Sunday, usually falling in December or January.
These distinct celebration periods highlight the rich cultural diversity within the Eastern Region of Ghana, where communities maintain their unique traditions while sharing common heritage.
