Beliefs about ghosts among the Akan of Ghana

Abstract

As a thanatologist who specializes in mortuary beliefs and rites in Ghana, I frequently come across information on Akan cultural beliefs about ghosts, as well as individual or personal stories of ghost encounters. Yet, there has been virtually no academic inquiry into the topic. Between January and February 2015, I listened to four consecutive weekly radio programs focusing primarily on ghosts on a commercial radio station in Ghana. The programs were broadcast in Twi, the Akan lingua franca, which the author is fluent in. Following extensive discussions about Akan cultural beliefs regarding ghosts and other superhuman entities by the host and co-hosts of the program, listeners were invited to share their personal stories about ghost sightings and other encounters with ghosts. The current article presents a narrative of the discussion that occurred on the four featured programs. The data show that Akans of Ghana maintain a strong cultural belief in ghosts. Several listeners shared with the host and listeners their personal encounters with ghosts and ghost activities.