Thesis by: Mary Mansa

Abstract:
This study was undertaken with a two-fold ambition; to examine the overall relevance of traditional marriage alongside the symbols paramount and operational within the marriage discourse and to contribute to existing literature on marriage by providing empirical account of Ashantis’ traditional marriage system. Using qualitative approach, twenty interviews were conducted with community leaders, family heads and married couples within the Kumasi metropolis and Bosomtwe/Atwima Kwanhuma District in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. The data showed that participants clearly understood traditional marriage as a union between two adults of opposite sex according to certain laid down customary procedures. Also among the Ashantis, the marriage process involves two major stages; knocking (kɔkɔɔkɔ) and final consummation of the marriage (Awaregeԑ). The study similarly unearthed clearly defined gender role differences in the performance of traditional marriage among the Ashantis. Marriage is contracted among the Ashantis through the payment of brideprice by presenting items such as two bottles of Schnapps, Akunta Sikan, Awheneԑ (Beads), a white cloth and Ԑtam (A Strip of Cloth). It was also found that the entire marriage arrangement including its ceremony is a manifestation of Ethnic Identity based on unique cultural outlooks and heritages. Lastly, it discovered that traditional marriage has some useful elements that bring two families together, as well as guide against promiscuous behaviors among married women.

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