10 Ghanaian Superstitions That Will Blow Your Mind
From strange night rules to eerie omens, here’s what Ghanaians really believe.
I’ve traveled across Ghana, from the busy streets of Accra to the quiet corners of the Volta Region. And one thing I’ve learned is that superstition is everywhere. It’s in the way we talk, the things we don’t do, and even the warnings passed down from grandma.
You may laugh, question, or even relate to these beliefs but trust me, many Ghanaians take them very seriously. Some are funny. Some are downright creepy. All of them tell you something about our culture.
Let’s dive into the top 10 Ghanaian superstitions you’ll definitely want to know.
1. Don’t Sweep at Night
Ask any Ghanaian elder and they’ll tell you: never sweep your home at night.
Why? Because you’ll sweep away your good fortune (your blessings, money, and luck). In some places, it’s even believed you could be disturbing the spirits or ancestors.
I remember sweeping the porch one evening when my auntie shouted from inside, “Ei! You want us to go broke?!”
I’ve never touched a broom after 8 PM since.
2. Owls Are a Bad Omen
If an owl perches near your house or hoots late at night, some people won’t sleep. Owls are considered a sign of death or witchcraft. In fact, many Ghanaians don’t even like to say the word “owl” at night. That’s how deep the fear runs.
3. Don’t Whistle at Night
Love whistling a tune? Not after dark in Ghana. It’s believed that whistling at night attracts evil spirits or snakes. You’ll hear this warning a lot if you grow up in a village.
4. Pregnant Women Shouldn’t Attend Funerals
This one is common across many parts of Ghana. A pregnant woman attending a funeral could risk spiritual harm to her unborn child. Whether or not you believe it, you’ll find many expectant mothers avoiding funerals completely just to be safe.
5. Never Point at a Graveyard
It may seem harmless, but pointing at a cemetery is believed to bring sickness or death upon yourself. If you do it by mistake, you’re supposed to bite your finger three times to cancel out the bad luck. Yes, seriously.
6. Don’t Use Your Left Hand
In Ghana, handing something to someone (especially food or money) with your left hand is a huge no-no. The left hand is seen as unclean or spiritually disrespectful. Even if you’re left-handed, you’ll be expected to learn how to pass things with your right.
7. If Your Palm Itches, Money Is Coming
This is one of the more fun ones. If your right palm itches, it means you’re about to receive money. But beware… if it’s your left palm, you’re probably going to spend money soon. Either way, someone’s wallet is about to feel it.
8. Twins Have Special Powers
In many Ghanaian traditions, especially among the Ewe, Akan, and Yoruba-influenced groups, twins are seen as spiritually gifted. They often get unique names, extra blessings, and in some families, special offerings. Harming a twin is said to bring spiritual consequences.
9. Eye Twitching = Something Big Is Coming
Ever had your eye twitch randomly? Ghanaians believe it’s not random at all. If it’s your right eye, good news is on the way. If it’s your left eye, brace yourself, for something bad might be around the corner.
10. Sudden Chill? A Spirit Just Walked By
You’re standing under the hot sun and suddenly feel a cold breeze or goosebumps? Some believe a spirit just passed near you. It might not mean harm, but it definitely means you’re not alone…
