Homowo is an annual harvest festival celebrated by the Ga people in Ghana's Greater Accra Region to commemorate a time of historical famine. The festival's name, "Homowo," means "hooting at hunger" in the Ga language, reflecting its theme of overcoming scarcity, celebrating abundance through traditional rituals, music, dance, and feasting. It is celebrated in August and September, with a special meal called kpokpoi (a steamed cornmeal dish) at its center.
While studying in Accra, I was invited to watch one of the festivals in a friend’s hometown nearby. With the head of the community's permission, I was allowed to use my camera, which gave me a front-row seat. I got to watch the festival-goers as the deities walked up and down the street, a guide leading them. Then would come those who were possessed until they could drink the blood of a sacrificial cow at the end of the day.
Looking back, my friend told me virtually nothing about the festival. Regardless, I am so grateful to be able to attend.
