n, and Learning Interesting Facts The North East Region of Ghana, carved out of the Northern Region in 2019, is one of the country’s youngest administrative divisions. Characterized by its savanna landscapes, river systems, and rural communities, this region preserves long-standing hunting traditions that are deeply tied to survival, identity, and cultural heritage. In North East Ghana, hunting remains a vital part of life for many households, especially during the dry season and in areas where agriculture alone does not suffice. Geography and Natural Features of North East Ghana for Hunting The North East Region features a mix of Guinea savanna woodlands, grasslands, and scattered river valleys, including parts of the White Volta Basin and tributaries such as the Nasia and Red Volta Rivers. The area experiences a single rainy season, followed by a long dry period that makes it favorable for seasonal hunting. Forest reserves like the Nakpanduri Scarp Forest Reserve and the Red Volta East Reserve offer essential habitats for wild game, though they are increasingly affected by farming, logging, and human settlement. Specificities of Hunting in North East Ghana Hunting in the region is largely subsistence-driven, practiced mainly by rural men and youth using traditional tools such as slingshots, traps, bows and arrows, and locally crafted firearms. Dogs are commonly used to track and flush out game, particularly during communal hunts. Hunting is typically carried out during the dry season, when vegetation is sparse, and animals are easier to locate near water sources. While some bushmeat is sold in local markets, most is used to supplement the family diet. Hunters and Demographics in North East Ghana Hunters are predominantly adult men and adolescent boys from farming households. Hunting is often seen as a rite of passage and a symbol of courage and self-reliance. Young hunters usually learn through experience and mentorship from older family members. Women generally do not hunt but are actively involved in meat preparation, preservation (through smoking or drying), and sale. In some communities, women also gather wild eggs and small reptiles. Formal hunting groups are rare, but community cooperation is common, especially during larger hunts. Types of Game and Hunting in North East Ghana Medium to large game: Bushbuck, duiker, warthog, and antelopes such as the kob and oribi. Small game: Cane rats (grasscutters), hares, squirrels, monitor lizards, and ground birds like guinea fowl and francolins. Aquatic and semi-aquatic species: Frogs, toads, and fish are also harvested in seasonal ponds and riverbanks. Protected species: Elephants, pangolins, and primates are protected under national law, though sometimes threatened by poaching. Hunting Seasons in North East Ghana The region aligns with the national hunting calendar managed by the Wildlife Division: Open season: From 1st August to 31st December, hunting of certain non-protected species is permitted. Closed season: From 1st January to 31st July, hunting is banned to protect breeding populations. In practice, most hunting occurs during the dry season (November to April), when agricultural activities slow down, and bush visibility improves. Local customs may further restrict hunting during sacred periods or specific community events. Hunting Structures and Local Organization in North East Ghana Hunting is generally managed through customary systems, with chiefs, elders, and family heads regulating forest access, settling disputes, and enforcing taboos. In some areas, specific forests or lands are reserved for elders or spiritual purposes, and hunting there is strictly forbidden. Forest rangers and the Forestry Commission are present in selected reserves, though enforcement is limited due to logistical and resource constraints. NGOs and local leaders are beginning to promote sustainable wildlife practices through awareness campaigns and education. Hunting Legislation in North East Ghana As per Ghana’s Wildlife Conservation Regulations (LI 685), hunting of protected species is illegal, and all hunters are expected to comply with the open/closed season guidelines. Certain tools (e.g., poisons, explosives) are prohibited, and hunting in protected areas requires formal permits. However, law enforcement is uneven in the region, and many hunters remain unaware of specific regulations. Community-based conservation and participatory resource management are gaining traction as more viable enforcement tools. Hunting Traditions in North East Ghana In North East Ghana, hunting is deeply interwoven with cultural identity, masculinity, and ancestral respect. Among ethnic groups like the Mamprusi, Bimoba, and Kusasi, hunters are celebrated for their bravery and skill. Traditional festivals sometimes feature symbolic hunts, animal dances, or war songs linked to hunting success. Taboos are observed around certain animals—such as forbidding the killing of particular species seen as totems or spiritual messengers. Sacred groves and trees are also protected, acting as informal conservation areas. In North East Ghana, hunting remains a crucial part of rural life—linking survival with spirituality, and tradition with territory. As the region grapples with environmental change, growing populations, and land pressures, integrating traditional knowledge with modern conservation practices will be key. With support for sustainable livelihoods, education, and cultural preservation, hunting can continue in ways that protect both the people and the biodiversity of North East Ghana.