Upper East Native Petitions Chiefs for Bride Price Reduction

Upper East Region, Ghana – July 29, 2025 – A concerned native of the Upper East Region has formally petitioned the Regional House of Chiefs, urging them to review and subsequently reduce the prevailing bride price requirements across the region. The petition, the details of which are beginning to emerge, highlights concerns that the current bride price demands are excessively high and pose a significant barrier to marriage for many young people in the area.

The image accompanying the report by 3News appears to depict livestock grazing in a field, a visual often associated with traditional bride price practices in many parts of Ghana, where livestock can form part of the customary payments.

The petitioner argues that exorbitant bride prices are not only preventing young men and women from getting married but are also contributing to social issues within the communities. The specific traditional customs and economic factors driving the current bride price levels are expected to be central to the discussions and potential review by the House of Chiefs.

This petition marks a significant call for a re-evaluation of long-standing traditions in light of modern economic realities. The outcome of the Regional House of Chiefs' deliberations on this matter will be closely watched, as it could have far-reaching implications for marriage customs and social dynamics in the Upper East Region.