Funerals in Ghana

Funerals in Ghana are completely different than funerals in America. First off, here when someone passes away, you make a big poster and get several prints to hang around town to let people know that a family member has passed away. My host teacher, Ralph, explained the process to us. Below is the poster he made for when his father passed away this past November. The funeral service was not until March. This happened for a couple of reasons: 1- to get the word out, 2- the election for President was happening, and 3- funding. A funeral in Ghana can last up to a week, as there are many parties. Most funerals are sort of like weddings- a lot of people come and there is drinking and dancing along with meals. Since these parties are so big, they cost a lot of money. In Ghana most people spend more money on their funerals than on their entire education!!!