Hunting in Northern Ghana: Exploring Geography, Navigating Regulations, and Discovering Local Traditions
The Northern Region of Ghana, one of the country’s largest and historically significant regions, is a land of expansive savannas, sacred groves, and strong cultural traditions. In this predominantly rural landscape, hunting remains an essential part of life—providing food, supporting rural economies, and upholding centuries-old customs. Although modern land use and conservation efforts have begun to reshape how hunting is practiced, it continues to be an important aspect of identity and survival for many communities. Geography and Natural Features of Northern Ghana for Hunting Northern Ghana is defined by its Guinea savanna ecosystem, which consists of open grasslands dotted with shrubs and scattered trees. Rivers like the White Volta, Oti, and Daka flow through the region, creating seasonal wetlands that attract wildlife. Areas such as the Mole National Park, Kulpawn Wildlife Reserve, and Tamale Forest Reserve support diverse species. While protected zones are off-limits to hunting, the surrounding lands provide ample opportunities for traditional, subsistence hunting. Specificities of Hunting in Northern Ghana Hunting in the region is primarily subsistence-based, with rural households relying on wild meat—known locally as bushmeat—to supplement their diets. Traditional tools such as bows, traps, and slingshots are widely used, alongside locally made firearms. Hunting is often timed around the dry season, when vegetation is sparse and wildlife is easier to track. In some communities, hunting is both a practical necessity and a communal event, where hunters share responsibilities and distribute meat among families. Hunters and Demographics in Northern Ghana Hunters are typically adult men, though boys often begin learning hunting techniques at an early age by accompanying their elders. Women do not usually participate in the act of hunting, but they play crucial roles in meat processing, preservation (smoking, drying), and local sale. Hunting is also linked to rites of passage in certain communities, where young men must prove their skill and courage. Knowledge is passed orally and through generations, making hunting a deeply cultural experience. Types of Game and Hunting in Northern Ghana Medium to large game: Duikers, bushbuck, kob, oribi, and warthogs are commonly hunted. Small game: Grasscutters (cane rats), hares, squirrels, porcupines, and monitor lizards. Birds: Guinea fowl, francolins, doves, and quail are popular targets, especially near farms and fallow lands. Protected species: Elephants, leopards, and pangolins are protected by law, particularly in and around Mole National Park. Hunting Seasons in Northern Ghana The Wildlife Division of Ghana regulates hunting nationwide, and Northern Ghana follows the national calendar: Open season: 1st August to 31st December — legal hunting of non-protected species is permitted. Closed season: 1st January to 31st July — hunting is prohibited to allow for animal reproduction and ecosystem balance. The dry season (November to April) is the preferred period for hunting in the region due to reduced vegetation and easier tracking. Local communities may also observe spiritual or cultural restrictions during specific periods. Hunting Structures and Local Organization in Northern Ghana Hunting in the Northern Region is typically managed through traditional authority systems, with chiefs, elders, and earth priests (Tindanas) overseeing land use and spiritual access to hunting areas. In some areas, sacred groves or community-protected forests are off-limits, creating informal conservation zones. While there are no formal hunting clubs, informal group hunting remains common, especially when targeting larger animals. Conservation NGOs are working with local leaders to introduce community wildlife monitoring and education. Hunting Legislation in Northern Ghana Ghana’s Wildlife Conservation Regulations (LI 685) prohibit the hunting of protected species and outline licensing procedures for legal hunting. The use of certain methods—such as poisons, fire, and automatic weapons—is strictly banned. While enforcement is more visible near protected reserves like Mole National Park, it remains limited in remote rural areas. Ongoing efforts aim to educate hunters on sustainable practices and the importance of biodiversity protection. Hunting Traditions in Northern Ghana Among ethnic groups like the Dagomba, Gonja, Mamprusi, and Nanumba, hunting is tied to ancestral knowledge, masculinity, and communal identity. Rituals may be performed before or after successful hunts, and animals like guinea fowl and grasscutters are featured in local folklore and ceremonial feasts. Some communities have hunting festivals or symbolic reenactments, while others protect sacred areas as home to spirits, where hunting is forbidden. These customs serve as a traditional form of environmental regulation. Interesting Facts about Hunting in Northern Ghana The region is known for its communal bush hunts, where hunters work in groups and use whistles or drum signals. Grasscutters are not only hunted but are also being domesticated in growing numbers as an alternative income source. Sacred groves in communities like Yendi and Damongo help protect biodiversity through cultural enforcement. Markets in Tamale, Salaga, and Buipe sell bushmeat, although demand fluctuates due to awareness of zoonotic disease risks. Some hunters are trained as community wildlife scouts, blending traditional knowledge with conservation efforts. In Northern Ghana, hunting remains an enduring tradition that reflects the region’s connection to land, community, and cultural identity. As Ghana advances its conservation and development goals, integrating traditional systems with modern wildlife management offers a promising pathway.