For years, many Ghanaians have avoided one important conversation — the Will conversation. We treat writing a Will as taboo, almost as if putting our wishes on paper is an invitation to death or a demonstration of weak faith.

Meanwhile, we work hard, build houses, acquire land, establish businesses, save money and raise children, yet often leave no clear instructions about what should happen to our property when we are gone.

Then death comes, and sometimes the family we worked so hard to protect is thrown into confusion.

We have seen the consequences. A hardworking person dies and disagreements begin over the matrimonial home. Children become uncertain about their future. Bank accounts and investments may become difficult to access while the estate is administered. Land and other property become subjects of bitter family disputes.

The tragedy is not simply that someone has died. Death is inevitable. The greater tragedy is that avoidable confusion can follow because proper arrangements were not made.

At funerals, we boldly write “Rest in Peace” on banners and funeral programmes. But we should also ask whether we have planned for peace among those we leave behind.

Writing a Will is not only for the rich. You do not need a mansion at Airport Hills or millions of cedis in the bank. If you own a house, land at Abomosu, a vehicle, investments, business interests or other valuable property, you should consider proper estate planning.

A Will is fundamentally about responsibility. It provides an opportunity to state clearly how you want your estate handled and who should benefit, subject to Ghanaian law.

Too many people postpone this responsibility because they believe they are still young, their spouses know everything, their children will never fight, or writing a Will somehow brings death closer.

But death does not consult our age, bank balance or plans.

Families that appear united today can face serious disagreements tomorrow when grief, money and property enter the equation. Verbal promises and family understandings may not provide sufficient protection when disputes arise.

That is why Ghanaians should make estate planning part of normal life. Seek proper legal advice, prepare a valid Will, appoint trustworthy executors and ensure the document is safely kept. Review it when important circumstances in your life change.

We insure our cars without wishing for accidents. We obtain health insurance without praying for sickness. We save for retirement without asking to grow old tomorrow.

Why, then, should writing a Will mean wishing for death?

A Will is not a death wish. It is an act of foresight, responsibility and love.

Write your Will while you can. Plan for peace before others are forced to manage the confusion you leave behind.