Changes In Marriage Ceremonies In West Africa: A Study Of The Yorubas Of Nigeria And The Anlo-Ewes Of Ghana

Abstract

This study systematically looks into the changes that have occurred in the ways marriages are celebrated among the Yorubas and Anlo-Ewes, with a focus on the forms of marriage ceremonies observed, similarities and differences between the marriage practices of these two cultures, changes and emergent patterns in their marriage practices. Its theoretical framework is hinged upon, Peter Ekeh‘s colonialism and the two publics. It adopts a strictly qualitative methodology. Observation and key informant interviews were used to gather information on the marriage ceremonies. Five (5) key informant interviews were conducted, respondents include, 2 registry officials, 1 catholic priest, 1 church administrator, 1 anthropologist. The study finds that in both cultures, there is an hybridization of the forms of marriages, solidifying the dilemma of the African Child being a citizen of two worlds in addition to the fact that there is an increasing preference for the religious marriages, over traditional marriages. Traditional marriages in both cultures are also being severely influenced by religious practices, with several changes seen to have occurred. One element however that has endured, is the eru-iyawo (Yoruba) and sronu (Anlo-Ewe), which refers to gifts brought by the groom‘s family for the bride The contemporary weddings among the Yoruba of southwest Nigeria and the Anlo-Ewes of South-East Ghana reflects a long history of modifications and change resulting from cultural and social intercourses with other cultures and also innovative dimensions aimed at ―ceremonising‖ and celebrating marital unions in more sophisticated ways. Key Words : Yoruba , Anlo-Ewe, Marriage Ceremonies, hybridization.