Yes. Money Matters.
In Ghana, marriage isn’t just a union between two people — it’s a coming together of families, traditions, expectations, and yes, finances. Yet, when it comes to the topic of debt and money management, many couples avoid the conversation completely — especially before the wedding.
But here’s the truth: money problems don’t disappear with love, and sweeping them under the rug doesn’t help. If you’re preparing for marriage and struggling with loans, debts, or any kind of financial burden — especially from credit cards, mobile loans, or online lending apps — it’s better to face it head-on before the big day.
Yes — and early too. Whether you're a man planning to pay a full bride price, or a woman dreaming of a big white wedding, you both need to know where you stand financially. Ghanaian culture often emphasizes appearances — but it’s wiser to build on truth than on performance.
Don’t wait until after the engagement or wedding plans are far along to bring up your debt or financial habits. Surprises like “By the way, I owe GHC 15,000” after rings have been exchanged can create serious tension and mistrust.
In Ghana, many couples start talking about joint accounts soon after the wedding. But if your incomes or debts are very different, or if one of you is a saver and the other a spender, take your time. It’s okay to keep separate accounts while still planning together.
Rather than rushing into merging everything, focus on transparency and teamwork. Discuss how household expenses will be shared, who handles what, and whether either of you is bringing debt into the marriage.
This is a sensitive subject — especially in Ghana where customary marriage practices and strong family involvement may make it seem unromantic or disrespectful. But the idea behind a prenuptial agreement isn’t always about mistrust — it’s about clarity and planning.
If one partner is entering the marriage with significant debt, assets, or even a family business, it may be worth having that conversation. You can frame it as future planning — not a sign of doubt.
Ghanaian weddings can be expensive — two ceremonies, outfits, food, venue, photography, souvenirs… it adds up quickly. But how you plan and manage your wedding budget together can give a preview of how you’ll handle finances in marriage.
If one partner is carefree with spending and the other is always calculating costs, there’s a lesson there. Rather than arguing, talk. Set limits. Make decisions together.
Many churches and mosques in Ghana now offer pre-marital counseling, but not all of them go deep into money issues. If finances have already caused tension, or you just want to start your marriage strong, consider adding financial counseling to the list.
You don’t need to be rich to plan well. You just need to be honest and united.
It’s okay to admit you took out a student loan and are still paying it off. It’s okay to say you have some credit card debt or a susu you’re part of. In fact, the earlier you share, the better. A good partner will appreciate honesty — not perfection.
In Ghanaian marriages, especially with extended family involvement, financial issues can become complicated very quickly. Don’t wait until you're already married to discover that your money values don’t align.
A successful marriage in Ghana — or anywhere — requires more than love. It needs communication, teamwork, honesty, and yes — wisdom around money. Start as you mean to go on. Talk now, plan early, and build a home where trust and transparency are just as strong as tradition and love.
