Expensive funerals in Ghana: It is time to rethink the culture

Many families go to the extent of selling properties, and borrowing from financial institutions that come to the funeral grounds to collect donations to make up for any money given out.

Yet losses are recorded many a time with expectations not being met.

This disturbing emerging conundrum needs to be tackled with practical steps to reduce the burden, if not eliminate same.

Why the emerging trend?

Studies on funeral practices in Ghana show that funeral celebrations have gradually transformed from modest communal rites into expensive social events heavily influenced by modern lifestyles, migration, social expectations and competition.

It is to be noted that whilst funerals in Ghana can consume substantial household income, they also negatively affect productivity, as many workers travel frequently for funeral activities.

Social pressure and competition in the public space lead many families to do what is beyond their means because of the fear of criticism if a funeral appears relatively simple.

In some communities, funerals have become occasions to display affluence, influence and social standing.

Multiple ceremonies also account for this trend.

Hitherto, one-week observances, pre-burial rites, wake-keepings and thanksgiving services, which now all add to the final cost, were modestly done and limited to a few people.

Now what seems to be the major driver of the high cost is food, drinks, chairs, canopies, sound systems and entertainment.

These consume a chunk of all funeral budgets.

Even people from relatively lower-income backgrounds spend so much on very expensive custom-designed funeral cloths and expensive attire for family members and this, in many cases, has become almost mandatory, such that those who cannot afford have to seek financial assistance.

The financial burden of funerals can have long-term consequences.

Some families remain in debt for years after a funeral. Ironically, people who did not and could not afford proper health care, for instance, for relatives while alive, sometimes spend heavily after death.

, including yours truly, argue that society must begin prioritising dignity over display.

Way forward?

We must, as Ghanaians, return to simplicity and our old ways of doing things rather than seeing life as a competition.

In this way, all traditional leaders, churches and families can encourage modest funerals focused on mourning and remembrance rather than spectacle, so to speak.

Funeral days, especially the one-week observance, must be regulated and limited to only family members to announce the day of the final funeral rites. Reducing funeral activities to a single main day could significantly cut costs.

Families should be encouraged to set clear spending limits and avoid unnecessary expenses driven by public pressure.

Furthermore, families should be encouraged to do funeral savings and insurance schemes as this is also an emerging scheme which may help families prepare without resorting to loans.

Ultimately, a cultural reorientation to changing attitudes is essential.

A dignified funeral does not have to be extravagant.

Respect for the dead should not come at the expense of the living.

More children have to be in school.

Arguably, funerals remain an important part of Ghanaian culture and social identity.

They unite families, preserve traditions and provide emotional support during grief.

However, as costs continue to rise, there is a growing need for honest national conversation about sustainability.

Honouring the dead should not impoverish the living.

Perhaps the time has come for Ghana to redefine what truly makes a befitting funeral.