News of his death spread like wild fire.
At the time I heard, I was in a trotro (public transport) and people began to talk louder and started to call friends. The 'mate' (person who collects the money) explained to me that the president had died. At first, I thought he was asking me if I knew the president personally- I was very confused- but we clarified.
For the next couple of hours the country seemed on edge. People were in shock and were unsure what to do. On my way home, I stopped at a chop bar (street food restaurant) where everyone was crowded around watching TV. Everyone was glued to the TV hoping to hear more news.
Although there was talk about the President passing for the next week, it was not tense. The vice-president was sworn in within a couple of hours in line with the constitution. This meant there was no room for uncertainty or fear to take hold.
Today was the remembrance day of the Presidents death. There was a ceremony held in the city centre and the family were in town also. The whole city was covered in red and black as these are the colours you wear to a funeral. I bought some red material to fit in. There was dancing and singing and it seemed like everyone had descended on Accra City Central to remember their late president.
The funeral will take place from 8-10 August.
Everyone will wear red or black.
Funerals are big events in Ghana. Depending on the tribe, funerals can take place soon after the person has passed away or many months later. Families will have savings in case there is a death in their family because funerals cost so much money. The family has to pay for catering, hiring of marquees, sound systems, and gifts for the extended family. Funerals are also a time where guys and girls can meet. They are such big events that sometimes boys will wander around till they see a funeral to join- there they will get a free meal, some drinks and get to meet some girls.
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