Four cows as bride price is too much – Man from Bongo takes the matter to Upper East Regional House of Chiefs

Four cows as bride price is too much – Man from Bongo takes the matter to Upper East Regional House of Chiefs

Emmanuel Atindah, a concerned native of Bongo in the Upper East Region, has petitioned the Regional House of Chiefs to review and reduce high bride price demands in the region. In a letter to the House, chaired by Chiana-Pio Pe Ditundini Adiali Ayagitam III, he noted that some families demand no less than four cows, which many young men simply can’t afford. “The inconsistency confuses inter-district marriages, places unbearable financial pressure on young men, and leads many to cohabit without performing traditional rites,” he wrote. Atindah clarified that he isn’t against tradition but wants it to be more accessible and sustainable. “This is not to devalue our tradition, but to ensure that it remains relevant, inclusive, and sustainable for the younger generation.” He also called for uniformity across the region, citing variations in demands—ranging from two to four cows, and up to seven sheep—making marriage rites confusing and expensive.