Ghana
From the gorgeous beaches to the tropical national parks to the savanna of the north, nature-loving travelers have much to see. With slave trade castles and the remains of the once-powerful Ashanti empire, those interested in history will appreciate Ghana’s museums.
The country is known for its friendly and welcoming people, political stability, and progressive attitude towards education. The government spends well over a quarter of its budget on education. However, competition for university and college seats is intense as only five universities and about forty colleges exist for a population of eighteen million. Higher education is more job-oriented than in America or England. English is the official language in both government and education.
Ghana boasts a traditional culture in a modernizing nation. It is well known for its music and arts, and part of Ghanaian culture derives from its rich history. Ghana still has castles and forts from the colonial era when it was a nexus of the inter-Atlantic slave trade. The country has long resisted European occupation, and it was one of the first to declare independence from colonial rule.
The country of Ghana possesses natural resources such as gold, timber, and cocoa, making it somewhat wealthier than other West African countries. However as a developing nation, it relies heavily on international financial and technical assistance. About 31% of the population lives below the poverty line. Interestingly, most of Ghana ‘s electricity, as well as that of its neighbors, is supplied by a large hydroelectric dam built in 1965 that formed the world’s largest reservoir, Lake Volta, which covers 3.6% of Ghana’s land area.
Climate
Ghana has a hot tropical climate. The coastline features beautiful beaches and a tropical forest belt that extends to the middle of the country, including the second largest city, Kumasi. The eastern coast, which includes the capital of Accra, is warm and less humid and hot than the western coast. The northern interior is hot and dry.
Health and Safety
Pick pocketing, credit card fraud, and scams are an increasing risk in Ghana. As in most tropical countries, malaria poses a significant risk.
Visit the CDC’s Ghana page for updated information on health conditions in Ghana.
Religion and Festivals
The majority of Ghanaians consider themselves Christian. About one-fifth of the population is Muslim, and another fifth hold various African beliefs. Public holidays include New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Labour Day, Africa Day, Republic Day, Eid al Fitr (End of Ramadan), National Farmers’ Day, Christmas, and Revolution Day.
Transportation
Kotoka International Airport is in Accra, and the main harbor is in Tema. A ferry runs across Lake Volta, which reaches a large section of eastern Ghana. Private automobiles are a good way to get around, and rentals are available in the capital. Taxis and minibuses are also available. Railroads connect Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi.
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