The Akans have an elaborate burial ceremony because it is thought that the condition of the deceased in the other world is determined in part by the treatment he receives from his family and friends.
In Akan cultural heritage the death of an individual makes an extremely big difference not only to the deceased relatives but also to whatever association one had during his lifetime. Among Akans it is a norm for dead bodies to be kept in the mortuary for weeks or months until relatives are adequately organized to give a fitting burial ceremony to the departed soul. Such preparations normally take the form of an expensive coffin, shroud, food and refreshment for invited guests, provision of music usually by a hired band, publicity on radio and television, etc.
Photo Gallery: © Jordi Zaragozà Anglès / Ivory Coast - 2023
Extended info about Akan People