Religion in Ghana
Religion in Society
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The religious composition of Ghana in the first postindependence population census
of 1960 was 41 percent Christian, 38 percent traditionalist, 12 percent Muslim, and
the rest (about 9 percent) no religious affiliation. A breakdown of the 1960 population
according to Christian sects showed that 25 percent were Protestant (non-Pentecostal);
13 percent, Roman Catholic; 2 percent, Protestant (Pentecostal); and 1 percent, Independent
African Churches. The 1970 population census did not present figures on the religious
composition of the nation
The percentage of the general population considered to be Christian rose sharply
to 62 percent according to a 1985 estimate. Whereas the Protestant (non-Pentecostal)
sector remained at 25 percent, the percentage of Catholics increased to 15 percent.
A larger rise, however, was recorded for Protestants (Pentecostals)-- 8 percent compared
with their 2 percent representation in 1960. From being the smallest Christian sect,
with a 1 percent representation among the general population in 1960, membership
in the Independent African Churches rose the most - to about 14 percent by 1985. The
1985 estimate also showed that the Muslim population of Ghana rose to 15 percent.
Conversely, the sector representing traditionalists and non-believers (38 and 9 percent,
respectively, in 1960), saw dramatic declines by 1985 - to 21 and about 1 percent,
respectively. This shift, especially the increase in favor of the Independent African
Churches, attests to the success of denominations that have adjusted their doctrines
to suit local beliefs.
Religious tolerance in Ghana is very high. The major Christian celebrations of
Christmas and Easter are recognized as national holidays. In the past, vacation periods
have been planned around these occasions, thus permitting both Christians and others
living away from home to visit friends and family in the rural areas. Ramadan, the
Islamic month of fasting, is observed by Muslims across the country. Important traditional
occasions are celebrated by the respective ethnic groups. These festivals include
the Adae, which occur fortnightly, and the annual Odwira festivals of the Akan. On
these sacred occasions, the Akan ancestors are venerated. There are also the annual
Homowo activities of the Ga-Adangbe, during which people return to their home towns
to gather together, to greet new members of the family, and to remember the dead.
The religious rituals associated with these festivities are strictly observed by
the traditional elders of the respective ethic groups.
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