Bolga East residents seek financial assistance from MP to purchase cattle for dowries
In an unconventional turn of events, some constituents of the Bolgatanga East constituency in the Upper East Region of Ghana have sought financial assistance from their Member of Parliament, Dr. Dominic Akuretinga Ayine, to purchase cattle for dowries. This departure from traditional requests for community development projects highlights the personal nature of constituents’ needs and sheds light on the complexities of representation in local governance.
While MPs typically field requests for community infrastructure and social services, Dr. Ayine revealed that a segment of his constituents have approached him with individualized requests, including financial aid for dowry payments. The practice of seeking assistance for dowries underscores the cultural significance of marriage and family ties within the Bolga East community.
Acknowledging the delicate balance between addressing personal requests and promoting community development, Dr. Ayine expressed a willingness to assist constituents in meeting their cultural obligations, even if it means providing financial support for dowry payments. He emphasized the importance of maintaining positive relationships with constituents and meeting their diverse needs, regardless of their nature.
The Bolgatanga East constituency, carved out of the Bolga constituency in 2012, is predominantly inhabited by Frafras, with Gurune being their mother tongue. In Frafraland, the payment of dowry symbolizes respect and commitment between families, signifying the union of two households.
Traditionally, Frafras adhere to specific customs regarding dowry payments, with the customary dowry consisting of either three cows or a combination of two cows and seven sheep. Given the current market value, each cow is estimated at approximately 3,000 cedis, making dowry payments a significant financial obligation for families.
