Learning Interesting Facts The Upper East Region, located in the northeastern corner of Ghana, is known for its unique cultural heritage, historic settlements, and dry savanna landscapes. In this predominantly rural region, hunting has long been a way of life, providing food, supporting livelihoods, and preserving traditions. Despite environmental challenges and modern regulatory frameworks, hunting remains deeply woven into the social and economic fabric of many Upper East communities. Geography and Natural Features of Upper East for Hunting The Upper East Region is characterized by Guinea and Sudan savanna vegetation, low hills, rocky outcrops, and river systems such as the White Volta, Red Volta, and Sissili Rivers. Seasonal streams and wetlands create vital habitats for wildlife during the rainy season. Although the landscape is drier compared to southern Ghana, it supports species well adapted to arid environments. Areas near Tongo Hills, Bawku plains, and the Bolgatanga Basin have historically been important hunting zones. Specificities of Hunting in Upper East Hunting in the Upper East Region is largely subsistence-based, carried out by rural dwellers to supplement farming and household diets. Traditional hunting methods, including traps, slingshots, spears, bows and arrows, and trained dogs, are widely used. Some hunters also use locally manufactured firearms. Hunting is highly seasonal, with most activity concentrated in the dry season, when vegetation is sparse and animals are easier to track. Communal hunting practices are common, especially during festivals and periods of food scarcity. Hunters and Demographics in Upper East Hunters are predominantly adult men, with younger boys learning the skills through direct mentorship. Hunting knowledge—such as tracking techniques, animal behavior, and trap-making—is passed down through generations. Women play important roles in processing and selling bushmeat, particularly in local markets like those in Bolgatanga, Navrongo, and Sandema. Though formal hunting organizations are rare, communities often hunt collectively during major events or for crop protection. Types of Game and Hunting in Upper East Medium game: Bushbuck, oribi, kob, and duiker species. Small game: Cane rats (grasscutters), hares, porcupines, monitor lizards, and small rodents. Birds: Guinea fowl, francolins, pigeons, and doves are widely hunted and highly valued. Aquatic species: Frogs and fish are occasionally harvested from seasonal ponds and riverbanks. Protected species: Elephants, lions, leopards, pangolins, and certain primates are protected under national wildlife laws. Hunting Seasons in Upper East The Upper East Region follows Ghana’s national hunting framework: Open season: From 1st August to 31st December, hunting of non-protected species is permitted. Closed season: From 1st January to 31st July, hunting is banned to support wildlife conservation and breeding cycles. The dry season (November to April) is the most active hunting period, as lower vegetation cover makes animal tracking more feasible. Some traditional festivals or spiritual observances impose additional local hunting restrictions. Hunting Structures and Local Organization in Upper East Customary leadership structures—chiefs, Tindanas (land priests), and elders—play an important role in regulating hunting practices. Community norms often govern access to hunting grounds and establish no-hunting zones, especially around sacred sites. In some cases, traditional leaders collaborate with wildlife officers to protect endangered species. NGOs and conservation agencies are increasingly working with local communities to introduce wildlife education, sustainable hunting alternatives, and biodiversity conservation programs. Hunting Legislation in Upper East Ghana’s Wildlife Conservation Regulations (LI 685) regulate all hunting activities. Hunting of protected species is illegal, and licenses are required for legal hunting during the open season. Banned practices include using poison, explosives, or uncontrolled fires. Enforcement tends to be strongest near towns and protected areas but weaker in remote villages. Efforts are ongoing to bridge gaps between traditional practices and legal frameworks through education and community engagement. Hunting Traditions in Upper East Hunting traditions are integral to the cultural life of the Upper East Region’s ethnic groups, including the Gurunsi (Frafra, Kassena, Nankani), Busanga, and Builsa. Hunting is often associated with manhood, bravery, and wisdom, and successful hunters are respected figures in society. Storytelling, folk songs, and traditional festivals often feature hunting themes. Some sacred groves and ancestral sites are protected by taboos, where hunting is forbidden, serving as natural refuges for wildlife. Interesting Facts about Hunting in Upper East Community hunting is often organized during dry seasons to address crop-raiding by wild animals. Guinea fowl, one of the region’s key cultural and culinary staples, is both hunted and domesticated. Traditional hunting festivals occasionally feature competitive hunts to display tracking skills. Sacred groves around towns like Tongo and Paga act as informal conservation areas. Some communities are adopting grasscutter farming as a sustainable alternative to wild hunting. In the Upper East Region, hunting reflects a deep connection between people, culture, and nature. As environmental pressures grow and conservation needs intensify, finding a balance between traditional hunting practices and modern wildlife protection strategies is essential. With community collaboration, education, and sustainable resource management, the Upper East can preserve both its rich cultural heritage and its vital ecosystems.