Bole Chief Imam Bans Lavish Islamic Weddings to Promote Affordability

Mar 10, 2025 - 01:08

Bole, Savannah Region, Ghana - 10 March, 2025 - Islamic weddings in Ghana's Bole Traditional Area are set for a major overhaul, as the local Chief Imam, Alatihu Alhaji Mohammed Iddrisu, cracks down on extravagant celebrations.

The move aims to promote modesty and affordability, amid concerns that lavish weddings are pricing young people out of marriage.

The ban, which took effect on March 5, targets specific practices deemed to be at odds with traditional Islamic values. These include elaborate receptions, multiple outfit changes by couples, and the involvement of male beauticians in dressing the bride and 'jams', a popular record dance event.

According to the Chief Imam, the decision was made after extensive consultations with Islamic clerics and aims to address the financial burden that extravagant weddings place on young people.

"This decision aims to curb deviant practices which set high wedding costs, therefore making it difficult for many youths to get married," the statement read in part.

The ban is expected to spark discussions within the Muslim community and beyond.

The Chief Imam in a statement, has called for cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of the ban, which has been communicated to key authorities and institutions, including the Paramount Chief of Bole, the police, and local media houses.

Read the statement from the Chief Imam below.