It is not uncommon for people to face backlash for their actions on social media. It is pertinent to note that perception of the stories on the internet sometimes becomes toxic because of the point of view of not knowing what drove the action.
Recently, a video of a couple went viral on social media. The video shows how a lady interrupted the groom while dancing with his wife. A lot of things were said until it was revealed that it is a tradition called Da’chahili by the Dagomba people of Ghana. Let’s go into who they are.
Here are quick facts about Dagomba people and their tradition, Da’chahili:
- Dagomba people originated not from Ghana but in present-day northern Nigeria. Toha-zie is the hunter and ancestor who led the migration.
- The Dagomba are related to the Mossi People of Burkina Faso and the founders of Bouna state in Ivory Coast.
- In Dagomba Tradition, women are very important and highly regarded. Dagomba women rule alongside their male counterparts. They are entitled to royal titles and lands. It is also the brothers’ duty to protect their sisters’ dignity by all means.
- Da’chahili is a tradition among the Dagomba people whereby a female cousin or relative dances with her male cousin on his wedding day. She is regarded as the wife of the groom’s family and must be paid heavily before she surrenders him to the bride. It is a way of letting the new wife know she is taking away someone’s husband.
- The groom’s family would also compensate the female cousin or relative with gifts or money to show appreciation for her relationship with their son.
- Music is vital in the Dagomba tradition. It is used to preserve history. The drumming serves as a reminder for people to remember how they are connected. The drums are referred to as “talking drums,” while drummers are called storytellers and keepers of history. They celebrate the oldest festivals in Ghana: the Fire Festival, Guinea Fowl Festival, Yam Festival, Market Festival, and Damba Festival.
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