18 Superstitions and Beliefs Only Ghanaians Understand
In Ghana, superstitions and beliefs range from practical advice and social decorum to the downright bizarre and bewildering. Always entertaining and sometimes very informative, here are a few common (and some really outlandish) superstitions.
It is a grave insult to give anyone anything with your left hand, as it is the hand traditionally used to clean oneself after using the bathroom
Herbal alcohol bitters cure a host of ailments such as sexual dysfunction and waist pain
Dwarfs with feet pointing backwards live in the forest and will kidnap you if you go deep in the night (you’ll only be returned home after several months!)
The crocodiles in Paga hold the souls of the village’s deceased
When two people say the same thing at the same time, someone is gossiping about them
If you paint your chickens fluorescent yellow or pink, baboons will not attack them
Maame Water, the deity mermaid of the oceans, demands peace during the run up to Homowo festival so no music can be played in the coastal areas
An itchy palm means money is coming your way soon
Whistling at night attracts evil spirits and ghosts
If you sit on a fufu mortar, you will have trouble with penile erections
Itchy feet mean you will be travelling soon
If you sell your soul to the juju man for money, he will come to collect sooner rather than later and you will turn into a goat
Nails should not be clipped at night as they are pieces of your body and can be taken by the spirits to perform evil acts against you
A man will become stupid if he washes a woman’s underwear
Bathing in warm water makes you age faster
If a pregnant woman goes out after 6 pm, the evil eye will harm the baby in the womb
If you stay sealed inside a coffin for a week, you will become rich once you’re out
Walking through cobwebs accidentally is seen as an evil attack on the spirit
Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.
Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>
All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.
Read Next
Sports
This Is Why Ghana’s Footballers Are Known as the ‘Black Stars’
Health & Wellness
The Best Natural Remedies to Avoid Mosquito Bites in Ghana
Film & TV
Beyond Hollywood: A Film Lover’s Guide to Ghana
Art
A Mobile Museum Is Instilling Ghanaians With National Pride
Art
Ntonso, Kumasi: The Home of Adinkra Symbolism
Tech
What Google’s New AI Centre Means for the Future of Ghana
Guides & Tips
A Day at the Beach in Ghana: What You Should Know
Health & Wellness
Tips On Finding a Doctor in Ghana
Guides & Tips
7 Unique Date Ideas to Try in Kumasi
Art
Sights and Sounds of Chale Wote Festival, Accra
Architecture
Why Plans for a Mega Cathedral Are Causing Controversy in Ghana
Guides & Tips
Slang Words That Will Make You Sound Like a Ghanaian
Culture Trip Spring Sale
Save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.
X
