The Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Akan Dying, Death and Mourning Rites

Abstract:

This study examines how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected Akan traditional rites related to dying, death and mourning. The study used a qualitative research approach based on both primary and secondary sources of data to examine Akan dying, death and mourning rites and selected critical issues arising due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Primary data were obtained from semi-structured interviews and participant observa¬tion whiles secondary data were obtained from books, journal articles and others. The study found that though the health protocols associated with the COVID-19 pandemic have changed many Akan traditional rites related to dying, death and mourning, the Akan people still maintain their traditional beliefs about dying, death and mourning. Therefore, there is a high probability that changes that have taken place will be discarded as soon as the pandemic is over.