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Ghana

Alright. Let's get this over with. You want information? Fine. But don't expect me to sugarcoat it. Wikipedia articles are such a bore, all dry facts and no… flair. I’ll give you the details, but I'll add a little something, a shade of truth that might make it… interesting.

Ghana

This is about the country, obviously. Don't confuse it with that ancient empire, the Ghana Empire. And for the love of anything remotely interesting, don't mix it up with Gana or Gaana. Honestly, the lack of distinction is staggering.

Republic of Ghana

Flag Coat of arms

Motto: "Freedom and Justice" – A noble sentiment, though the execution often leaves much to be desired. Anthem: "God Bless Our Homeland Ghana" – A plea, perhaps, more than a statement of fact.


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Capital and largest city: Accra – A sprawling beast, pulsing with a chaotic energy that’s almost… compelling. 05°33′18″N 00°11′33″W / 5.55500°N 0.19250°W / 5.55500; -0.19250

Official language: English – A necessity, I suppose. But the real conversations happen in the nuances, the unspoken.

Government-sponsored languages:

Working languages:

Other notable languages:

Ethnic groups (2021):

Religion (2021):

Demonym: Ghanaian

Government: Unitary presidential republic – A structure designed to hold power, and perhaps to contain it.

Legislature: Parliament

Independence from the United Kingdom:

  • Dominion: 6 March 1957 – A step towards self-determination, a gilded cage.
  • Republic: 1 July 1960 – The full break, the assertion of sovereignty.

Area: 240,000 km² (93,000 sq mi) – Not vast, but dense with history and potential. Ranked 80th globally.

  • Water: 4.61% (11,000 km²; 4,247 sq mi) – The lifeblood, the boundary.

Population:

  • 2025 estimate: 35,039,451 – A growing mass. Ranked 46th globally.
  • Density: 151/km² (391.1/sq mi) – Concentrated, intertwined. Ranked 90th.

GDP (PPP):

  • 2025 estimate (total): $295.12 billion – A significant economic engine. Ranked 68th.
  • Per capita: $8,042 – A measure of individual prosperity, or lack thereof. Ranked 132nd.

GDP (nominal):

  • 2025 estimate (total): $88.033 billion – The visible wealth. Ranked 79th.
  • Per capita: $2,520 – The stark reality for many. Ranked 143rd.

Gini coefficient (2024): 44 – Medium inequality. A persistent, gnawing divide.

HDI (2023): 0.628 – Medium. Ranked 143rd. A measure of progress, but progress is rarely linear.

Currency: Cedi (GHS) – The tangible representation of value, and its fluctuations.

Time zone: UTC±00:00 (GMT) – Aligned with the prime meridian, a point of reference.

Calling code: +233

ISO 3166 code: GH

Internet TLD: .gh

Ghana, officially the Republic of Ghana, is a country in West Africa. It sits by the Gulf of Guinea and the Atlantic Ocean to its south, a boundary that has shaped its history and its destiny. To its west lies Côte d'Ivoire, to the north, Burkina Faso, and to the east, Togo. These borders, like most, are arbitrary lines on a map, but they define the space, the people, the narrative. Ghana stretches across 239,567 km² (92,497 sq mi), a landscape that shifts from the dry savannas of the coast to the dense, humid embrace of tropical rainforests. It’s a land of contrasts, a microcosm of the continent’s diverse ecologies. With a population of 35 million, it’s a significant presence, the thirteenth-most populous nation in Africa, and the second in West Africa. The capital, Accra, is the heart, a chaotic, vibrant entity. But other cities – Tema, Kumasi, Sunyani, Ho, Cape Coast, Techiman, Tamale, Bolga, Wa, and Sekondi-Takoradi – each hold their own stories, their own pulse.

The earliest whispers of civilization here speak of the Bonoman kingdom in the south, and the Kingdom of Dagbon in the north, with Bonoman already established by the 11th century. Then came the Asante Empire and other Akan kingdoms, building their power, their legacy. From the 15th century, the Portuguese, and later other European powers, descended, drawn by the lure of trade, the glint of gold. It was a contest, a struggle for dominance, until the British finally asserted their control over the coast in the 19th century. Over a hundred years of resistance, of negotiation, of conflict, shaped the borders we see today. Four distinct British colonial territories – Gold Coast, Ashanti, the Northern Territories, and British Togoland – were unified. In 1957, Ghana emerged, the first colony in Sub-Saharan Africa to gain sovereignty, a dominion within the Commonwealth of Nations. Under the iron will of President Kwame Nkrumah, it became a beacon, a voice in the global chorus of decolonisation efforts and the Pan-African movement. A bold declaration, a new chapter etched in the annals of history.

Ghana is a tapestry of ethnic and linguistic threads, interwoven with a spectrum of religious beliefs. The Akan are the largest group, but they form a plurality, not an absolute majority. Christians are the dominant force (71.3%), with a significant Muslim minority (nearly a fifth), and a persistent adherence to traditional faiths or a declaration of no faith. It’s a complex spiritual landscape. Politically, Ghana is a unitary constitutional democracy, governed by a president who is both head of state and head of government. It’s a system that strives for stability. And in Africa, stability is a rare and precious commodity. Ghana ranks high in the Ibrahim Index of African Governance and the Fragile States Index, a testament to its resilience. Since 1993, it has cultivated a reputation for freedom and stability, performing commendably in healthcare, economic growth, and human development. Its influence resonates across West Africa and beyond. It’s a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement and the African Union, a participant in the Economic Community of West African States, the Group of 24, and the Commonwealth of Nations. A nation deeply enmeshed in the global web.

Etymology

The name Ghana is borrowed from the Wagadu empire, a powerful entity that flourished in West Africa from the 3rd to the 12th centuries. Arab traders, engaged in the intricate dance of the trans-Saharan trade, knew this empire as Ghana. The name itself is believed to derive from Kaya Maghan, the title of Wagadu's rulers, meaning "ruler of gold." A fitting moniker for an empire built on such wealth. When the Gold Coast colony was on the cusp of independence, its future leader, Kwame Nkrumah – a figure who, along with The Big Six, steered the nation towards its destiny – chose Ghana. It was a deliberate act, an attempt to forge a unified identity, to evoke a shared past, a legacy of strength and liberation. The name resonated, a powerful symbol of aspiration, of self-determination, of a future built on dignity and resilience.

History

Medieval kingdoms

The early chapters of Ghana's history are written in the rise and fall of kingdoms. Bonoman in the south, and the Kingdom of Dagbon in the north, laid the foundations. Bonoman existed as early as the 11th century. Later, from the 17th century, the Akan people began to coalesce into distinct states, their fortunes tied to the lucrative gold trade. These included Bonoman (in the Brong-Ahafo region), Adansi, Asante (in the Ashanti Region), Denkyira (in the Western North region), the Mankessim Kingdom (in the Central region), Akyem, and Akwamu (in the Eastern Region). By the 19th century, the Asante Kingdom had become a dominant force in the southern territories. Its governance evolved from a loose confederation to a centralized kingdom, with its administrative heart in Kumasi. Before their extensive contact with Europeans, the Akan people had already established a robust economy, primarily based on gold and gold bar trading, a network that extended across various African states.

Meanwhile, the Ga-Dangme and Ewe peoples journeyed westward from what is now southwestern Nigeria. The Ewe, once known as Dogbo, migrated from the Oyo region, their path marked by settlements in Benin and Togo, eventually reaching Nortsie, a fortified town in present-day Togo, which served as their final dispersal point. Their departure from Nortsie was precipitated by the oppressive rule of King Agorkorli. The Ewe in Ghana speak three main dialects: Anlo along the coast, Tongu along the Volta River, and Ewedome in the hilly interior. The Ga-Dangme settled in the Greater Accra Region and parts of the Eastern Region, while the Ewe are found in the Volta Region and neighboring Togo, Benin, and Nigeria.

European contact and colonialism

The Portuguese were the first Europeans to make their mark, establishing the Portuguese Gold Coast with the construction of Elmina Castle (Castelo da Mina) in 1482. This imposing structure stands as the oldest European building in Sub-Saharan Africa, a silent witness to centuries of trade, exploitation, and the ebb and flow of power.

Trade between the Akan and European powers began in earnest in the 15th century. The Portuguese, captivated by the region's gold, established a trading post at a settlement they renamed São Jorge da Mina. In 1481, King John II of Portugal dispatched Diogo de Azambuja to build what would become Elmina Castle, a formidable stronghold completed three years later. By 1598, the Dutch had joined the fray, carving out their own Dutch Gold Coast and constructing forts at Fort Komenda and Kormantsi. The Dutch eventually wrested control of Elmina Castle from the Portuguese in 1617 and captured Axim in 1642.

The 17th century saw other European traders, including the Swedes and Denmark–Norway, establish their own coastal footholds – the Swedish Gold Coast and the Danish Gold Coast. This era was also deeply entangled with the brutal Atlantic slave trade, with over thirty forts and castles erected along the coast by European merchants. The Germans, too, made their bid with the Brandenburger Gold Coast. By 1874, Great Britain had consolidated its influence, designating significant portions of the territory as the British Gold Coast. The path to British dominance was not without its struggles. Fierce military clashes erupted between British colonial forces and the Akan nation-states. The Ashanti Empire, in particular, proved a formidable opponent, repelling the British in several Anglo-Ashanti wars before ultimately succumbing in the War of the Golden Stool in 1900. Amidst this colonial struggle, cocoa cultivation began to flourish in the tropical forests, supported by the British administration, laying the groundwork for a significant commercial industry.

Transition to independence

The seeds of independence were sown in the mid-20th century. In 1947, the United Gold Coast Convention, led by the influential "The Big Six", began advocating for "self-government within the shortest possible time," a sentiment fueled by the 1946 Gold Coast legislative election. Kwame Nkrumah, a charismatic nationalist and future first prime minister and president, broke away in 1949 to form the Convention People's Party (CPP), with the rallying cry "self-government now." His strategy involved "positive action" – a campaign of non-violent protests, strikes, and civil disobedience. Nkrumah's activism led to his imprisonment, but even from behind bars, his influence grew. In the 1951 Gold Coast general election, he was elected to Parliament, and subsequently released. By 1952, he was prime minister, initiating a policy of Africanization to empower local leadership.

At the stroke of midnight on 6 March 1957, a new era dawned. The Gold Coast, Ashanti, the Northern Territories, and British Togoland were united as the independent dominion of Ghana, a member of the British Commonwealth, under the Ghana Independence Act 1957. The iconic flag of Ghana – red, gold, green, and a black star – was unfurled, symbolizing this newfound unity. On 1 July 1960, following a constitutional referendum and presidential election, Nkrumah declared Ghana a republic, becoming its first president. This date is now celebrated as Republic Day, while 6 March remains the nation's Independence Day.

Nkrumah's leadership, however, was not without its autocratic tendencies. He presided over an authoritarian regime, suppressing political dissent and conducting elections that lacked genuine fairness. In 1964, a constitutional amendment transformed Ghana into a one-party state, with Nkrumah declared president for life. Nkrumah was a fervent advocate of Pan-Africanism, a vision ignited during his studies in the United States, drawing inspiration from figures like Marcus Garvey. He integrated the philosophies of Garvey, Martin Luther King Jr., and W. E. B. Du Bois into his vision for 1960s Ghana. Known as Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, he was a key architect of the Non-Aligned Movement and established the Kwame Nkrumah Ideological Institute to propagate his ideologies of communism and socialism. His legacy was celebrated during his centenary, and his birthday was designated a public holiday in Ghana, Founders' Day.

Operation Cold Chop and aftermath

Nkrumah's reign was abruptly ended by a coup, codenamed "Operation Cold Chop," orchestrated by the Ghana Armed Forces. This occurred while Nkrumah was abroad, on a diplomatic mission to end the Vietnam War. The coup, led by Colonel Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka and Brigadier Akwasi Afrifa, brought the National Liberation Council (NLC), chaired by Lieutenant General Joseph A. Ankrah, to power.

From 1966 onwards, Ghana experienced a turbulent period of alternating military and civilian governments, often plagued by economic instability. This cycle culminated in the ascent of Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings and the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) in 1981. The constitution was suspended, and political parties were banned. The economy, predictably, suffered. Rawlings eventually navigated Ghana through a structural adjustment program, initiating reforms that stabilized the economy by the mid-1980s. A new constitution, reinstating multi-party system politics, was promulgated for the presidential election of 1992, which Rawlings won. He was re-elected in the general election of 1996.

In 1994, a brutal tribal war erupted in Northern Ghana, pitting the Konkomba against other ethnic groups like the Nanumba, Dagomba, and Gonja. The conflict resulted in the deaths of 1,000 to 2,000 people and displaced 150,000 more.

Traditional chiefs in 2015 – a lingering influence.

The 2000 general election marked a significant transition. John Kufuor of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) became president, a peaceful transfer of power from one elected leader to another, a landmark achievement for the Fourth Republic.

The 2008 general election saw a close contest, with John Atta Mills of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) narrowly defeating the NPP candidate. Mills's untimely death in 2012 led to Vice President John Mahama assuming the presidency. Mahama then secured his own mandate in the 2012 general election, solidifying Ghana's reputation as a "stable democracy." However, the 2016 general election brought Nana Akufo-Addo to power. He was re-elected in a closely fought election in 2020. Akufo-Addo's tenure concluded in January 2025, with John Mahama succeeding him as president.

In an effort to combat deforestation, Ghana launched "Green Ghana Day" on 11 June 2021, with an ambitious goal of planting five million trees. A necessary gesture, perhaps, against the relentless march of environmental degradation.

Geography

Overview

Ghana lies on the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa, a mere few degrees north of the Equator. It covers 238,540 km² (92,101 sq mi) and boasts a coastline of approximately 560 kilometers (350 miles) along the Atlantic Ocean. Geographically, it’s nestled between latitudes 4°45′N and 11°N, and longitudes 1°15′E and 3°15′W. An interesting quirk: the Prime Meridian slices through Tema, near Accra, making Ghana the country closest to the theoretical point of origin (0°, 0°) – a spot that lies offshore in the Atlantic.

The landscape is a mosaic of grasslands, coastal shrublands, and tropical rainforests. Forests extend inland from the coast for about 320 kilometers (200 miles) and creep eastward for another 270 kilometers (170 miles), providing resources for mining and timber. Ghana is home to five distinct terrestrial ecoregions: Eastern Guinean forests, Guinean forest–savanna mosaic, West Sudanian savanna, Central African mangroves, and Guinean mangroves. A rich biodiversity, often overlooked.

The White Volta and its tributary, the Black Volta, carve their way south through Ghana, eventually feeding into Lake Volta. This vast reservoir, created by the hydroelectric Akosombo Dam completed in 1965, is the world's third-largest by volume and largest by surface area. The Volta River then flows from the lake into the Gulf of Guinea. The northernmost point of Ghana is Pulmakong, near the Burkina Faso border, while the southernmost tip is Cape Three Points.


Topographic map

Satellite image


Map with national border, geographical regions and terrestrial plains colour-coded.

Landmarks, borders and regions

Climate

Overview

Ghana experiences a tropical climate, marked by distinct wet season and dry season. Its location places it at the convergence of three major hydro-climatic zones. The eastern coastal belt is warm and relatively dry, the south-west corner is hot and humid, and the northern regions are characterized by heat and dryness.

The specter of climate change in Ghana looms large, impacting everything from infrastructure and hydropower to food security and water supply. Rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, and more frequent extreme weather events like droughts, wild fires, and floods threaten livelihoods in agriculture and fisheries. Coastal erosion due to sea-level rise is another pressing concern. Ghana's economy, heavily reliant on climate-sensitive sectors, is particularly vulnerable. Diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and cholera are predicted to increase as water conditions change. Despite these challenges, Ghana has committed to action, signing the Paris Agreement in 2016 and setting a target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 64 million metric tons by 2030, with a long-term goal of net zero by 2060.

Relief and regions

The terrain of Ghana is varied: low coastal plains give way to forested hills in the center, and then to the expansive savanna of the north. Geographically, it can be divided into four main areas:

The highest point in Ghana is Mount Afadja (885 m), located in the Akwapim-Togo Range.

Hydrology

The Volta River system is the lifeblood of Ghana's water resources. Its principal tributaries, the White Volta and Black Volta, converge in the north before flowing into Lake Volta, one of the world's largest artificial reservoirs. Created by the Akosombo Dam in 1965, the lake is a critical source of hydropower. The Volta River eventually empties into the Gulf of Guinea, east of Accra. Other significant rivers include the Pra River, Ankobra River, and Tano River.

Extremities

Ghana's geographic boundaries are marked by Pulmakong, the northernmost settlement near the Burkina Faso border, and Cape Three Points, its southernmost point.

Politics

Overview

Ghana is a unitary presidential constitutional democracy. Its political landscape is characterized by a parliamentary multi-party system, largely dominated by two major parties: the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The nation transitioned from a history of civilian and military rule to the Fourth Republic in January 1993, following the presidential and parliamentary elections of late 1992. The current constitution of Ghana, enacted in 1992, delineates powers among the President of Ghana (also commander-in-chief of the Ghana Armed Forces), the Parliament of Ghana, the Cabinet of Ghana, the Ghanaian Council of State, and an independent Judiciary of Ghana. Elections are held every four years under universal suffrage.

Presidential terms are limited to two four-year mandates. Nana Akufo-Addo secured the presidency in the general election in 2016, defeating the incumbent John Mahama. He was subsequently re-elected in the 2020 election, a result that was contested in the Supreme Court. Akufo-Addo's presidency concluded in January 2025, with John Mahama assuming the role of president.

Ghana has consistently demonstrated political stability. The Fragile States Index of 2012 ranked it as the 67th least fragile state globally and fifth in Africa. Furthermore, the 2012 Transparency International Corruption Perception Index placed Ghana at 64th out of 174 countries for low corruption, and fifth in Africa. The Ibrahim Index of African Governance (2012) ranked it seventh on the continent, highlighting its success in delivering essential political goods to its citizens. According to the 2023 V-Dem Democracy indices, Ghana stands as the 67th electoral democracy worldwide and the 10th in Africa, indicating a robust democratic framework.

Foreign relations

Since gaining independence, Ghana has been a staunch advocate for nonalignment, playing a pivotal role in the founding of the Non-Aligned Movement. It champions international and regional cooperation, actively participating in the United Nations and the African Union.

Ghana maintains a strong diplomatic relationship with the United States. The country has hosted multiple U.S. presidents – Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama – as well as Vice President Kamala Harris. Ghanaian diplomats and public figures have held significant positions in international organizations, including former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, International Criminal Court Judge Akua Kuenyehia, and former Presidents Jerry John Rawlings and John Agyekum Kufuor, who served as UN diplomats.

In September 2010, President John Atta Mills visited China, where he and then-General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party Hu Jintao commemorated 50 years of diplomatic ties. China reciprocated this engagement, with a visit from Zhou Tienong, vice-chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of China, in November 2011, meeting with President John Mahama. Chinese investment has become a significant factor in Ghana's economy, focusing on infrastructure, natural resources, and manufacturing. While these investments have spurred growth and job creation, concerns about project sustainability, environmental impact, and transparency persist.

In 2013, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad met with Mahama to discuss strengthening the Non-Aligned Movement and fostering bilateral relations.

Ghana has integrated the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its national agenda, employing a decentralized planning approach that encourages stakeholder participation. The country was recognized for being the first Sub-Saharan African nation to achieve the goal of halving poverty, as outlined in Goal 1 of the Millennium Development Goals.

Military

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) began with a modest structure in 1957, comprising headquarters, support services, infantry battalions, and an armored reconnaissance squadron. President Nkrumah harbored ambitions of rapidly expanding the GAF to support his vision of a United States of Africa. This led to the establishment of additional battalions and a parachute airborne unit in the early 1960s. Today, Ghana is recognized as a regional power and regional hegemon. The GAF has earned high praise for its professionalism and effectiveness, as noted by Canadian Forces commander Roméo Dallaire in his book Shake Hands with the Devil. The military's operations and doctrine are guided by the constitution, military strategy documents, and agreements such as those from the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre. Though Ghana is generally peaceful, political grievances have, at times, sparked localized violence.

Law enforcement

The primary law enforcement agencies are the Ghana Police Service and its Criminal Investigation Department, responsible for crime detection, maintaining order, and ensuring internal security. The Ghana Police Service operates through eleven specialized units, including a Militarized police Rapid Deployment Force and a Marine Police Unit. These forces are organized into ten regional divisions, with additional units dedicated to the port city of Tema and maritime security. The Marine Police Unit specifically addresses issues related to the country's offshore oil and gas industry. Incarceration is managed by the Ghana Prisons Service, which includes the Borstal Institute for Juveniles. Ghana retains the death penalty for severe offenses. The pursuit of justice and effective, accountable institutions is an ongoing endeavor, aligned with global Sustainable Development Goals.

Ghana serves as a critical transit point for international drug trafficking, particularly for narcotics originating from South America destined for Europe. The country's porous borders and underdeveloped border control infrastructure make it vulnerable. The narcotics trade operates largely as an underground economy, often operating beyond public awareness. The geographical location along the Gulf of Guinea further enhances its appeal to drug cartels. Despite efforts by the Narcotics Control Board, which has seized significant quantities of cocaine, drug seizures have seen a decline in recent years, suggesting evolving tactics by traffickers. The presence of established smuggling organizations contributes to Ghana's role in this illicit trade.

Human rights

Homosexual acts are legally prohibited in Ghana, and societal acceptance remains extremely low, with a 2013 Pew Research Center survey indicating 96% of Ghanaians believe homosexuality should not be accepted. In some rural areas, elderly women in Ghana are sometimes accused of witchcraft, leading to the existence of so-called witch camps housing around 1,000 individuals. The government has expressed an intention to close these camps.

Economy

Overview

Ghana possesses a rich array of industrial minerals, hydrocarbons, and precious metals. It is recognized as an emerging digital economy with a mixed economy structure and is classified as an emerging market. The nation has set forth an ambitious economic blueprint, "Ghana Vision 2020," aiming to become a developed country by 2029 and a newly industrialized country by 2039. This vision places Ghana among the vanguard of African economic development.

Ghana's economic ties extend to the Chinese yuan renminbi, bolstered by its substantial gold reserves. In 2013, the Bank of Ghana began circulating the renminbi as a secondary national trade currency, alongside the national Ghanaian cedi.

Poverty remains a significant concern, with a stark contrast between urban and rural areas. In 2012-2013, 38% of rural dwellers faced poverty, compared to just 11% in urban areas. Urban centers offer greater employment opportunities, particularly in informal trade, while rural poverty is largely concentrated within the agricultural sector.

Energy

The Volta River Authority and the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation, both state-owned entities, are the primary electricity producers. The Akosombo Dam, constructed on the Volta River in 1965, along with the Bui Dam, the Kpong Dam, and other hydroelectric facilities, form the backbone of the nation's hydropower generation. The government has also explored the development of a second nuclear power plant in Africa.

Finance

The Ghana Stock Exchange ranks as the fifth largest in Africa and third in Sub-Saharan Africa, with a market capitalization of GH¢57.2 billion (CN¥180.4 billion) in 2012. It was the second best-performing stock exchange in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2013.

Agriculture and exports

Ghana is a major producer of high-quality cocoa, ranking as the second-largest global producer. Its membership in the ICCO facilitates international cocoa trade. Ghana is classified as a middle-income country. The services sector contributes the largest share to GDP (50%), followed by manufacturing (24.1%), extractive industries (5%), and taxes (20.9%).

Industry and technology

Ghana's economy is characterized by a growing manufacturing sector and the export of digital technology products. The country is also involved in the assembly and export of automobiles and ships. Its diverse export base includes industrial minerals and agricultural products, with cocoa being a primary commodity. Ghana is also a significant producer and exporter of petroleum and natural gas.

The information and communications technology (ICT) sector is a vital part of Ghana's industrial landscape, with companies like Rlg Communications spearheading the production of mobile devices and consumer electronics.

Electric cars have been manufactured in Ghana since 2014, signaling a move towards greener transportation.

In a notable financial move, Ghana announced plans to issue government debt through social and green bonds in late 2021, becoming the first African country to do so. These bonds aim to refinance debt and fund social and environmental projects, including educational and health initiatives.

Natural resources

Ghana produces and exports hydrocarbons such as sweet crude oil and natural gas. The state-owned Ghana Oil Company is a leading player in the petroleum and gas sector, while the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation oversees exploration and production. Ghana aims to significantly increase its oil and gas output. The discovery of the Jubilee Oil Field in 2007, containing substantial crude oil reserves, marked a turning point. Ghana is estimated to hold significant petroleum reserves, ranking among the largest in Africa and the world. The government has also explored nationalizing petroleum and natural gas reserves to enhance revenue.

In 2015, Ghana produced 88 metric tonnes of gold. By 2019, it had surpassed South Africa to become Africa's largest gold producer. Beyond gold, Ghana exports silver, timber, diamonds, bauxite, and manganese, with further mineral deposits awaiting exploitation. The government has considered nationalizing the mining industry to increase state revenue.

The electricity shortages of 2015 and 2016, known as dumsor, spurred increased interest in renewable energy sources. As of 2019, there is a surplus of electricity.

The judicial system of Ghana grapples with issues of corruption and economic malpractice. Transparency International's 2018 Corruption Perceptions Index ranked Ghana 78th out of 180 countries, indicating perceived levels of public sector corruption.

Science and technology

Ghana launched its cellular mobile network in 1992, followed by internet connectivity and ADSL broadband services. The country ranks 101st in the Global Innovation Index (2025).

The Ghana Space Science and Technology Centre (GSSTC) and the Ghana Space Agency (GhsA) are spearheading the nation's space exploration initiatives. Efforts are underway to launch a national security observational satellite. Ghana allocates 1% of its GDP to space exploration and scientific research, and collaborates with the South African National Space Agency.

Tourism

In 2011, Ghana welcomed 1,087,000 tourists from various continents. The country offers a diverse range of attractions, including waterfalls like Kintampo waterfalls and Wli waterfalls, palm-lined beaches, caves, mountains, and vast lakes such as Lake Bosumtwi and the expansive Lake Volta. Historical sites include dozens of forts and castles, many designated World Heritage Sites. Notable among these are Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle, poignant reminders of the transatlantic slave trade and crucial repositories of African heritage. UNESCO has recognized these sites as significant monuments, shaping not only Ghana's history but the history of the world.

In 2010, the World Economic Forum ranked Ghana 108th out of 139 countries in terms of tourist appeal. However, Forbes magazine in 2011 recognized Ghana as the 11th most friendly country globally, the highest ranking for an African nation. Tourism remains a significant earner of foreign exchange for Ghana. In 2024, Ghana was ranked the 55th most peaceful country in the world according to the Global Peace Index.

The coastline offers numerous surfing spots, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe.

According to Destination Pride, Ghana scores 22 out of 100 on its "Pride" index.

Demographics

As of 2024, the United Nations estimates Ghana's population at 34,581,288. Approximately 29% of the population is under 15 years old, with the majority (57.8%) falling within the 15-64 age bracket. The 2010 census identified the largest ethnic groups as the Akan (47.3%), Mole-Dagbani (18.5%), Ewe (13.9%), Ga-Dangme (7.4%), Gurma (5.7%), and Guan (3.7%). The median age of Ghanaian citizens is 21 years, reflecting a youthful population. Ghana accounts for 0.42% of the global population.

Ghana has seen an influx of skilled workers holding Ghana Cards, contributing to small communities of Chinese, Malaysian, Indian, Middle Eastern, and European nationals. However, the Ghana Immigration Service has also reported significant numbers of economic migrants and undocumented immigrants, predominantly from Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Togo, and Mali. Historically, Ghana has implemented measures to manage its foreign population; in 1969, the "Ghana Aliens Compliance Order" led to the deportation of over 3 million aliens. More recently, in 2013, thousands of undocumented miners, including Chinese nationals, were deported.


Largest cities or towns in Ghana (2021 census)

Rank Name Region Population
1 Accra Greater Accra 1,964,264
2 Kumasi Ashanti Region 1,468,609
3 Tamale Northern Region 360,579
4 Takoradi Western Region 232,919
5 Sunyani Bono Region 202,932
6 Teshie Greater Accra 176,597
7 Cape Coast Central Region 143,015
8 Sekondi-Takoradi Central Region 138,872
9 Obuasi Ashanti Region 137,856
10 Koforidua Eastern Region 130,810

Languages

English holds the status of the official language of Ghana. In addition, eleven languages are officially recognized and supported:

Among these, Asante Twi is the most widely spoken, a linguistic thread that binds many communities.

Given Ghana's proximity to French-speaking countries, French is a common subject in schools and utilized in commercial and international dealings. Since 2005, Ghana has been an associate member of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie, a global body of French-speaking nations. French instruction has become increasingly integrated into the curriculum, with aspirations for it to become an official language.

Ghanaian Pidgin English, also known as Kru English, is a variant of West African Pidgin English spoken primarily in Accra and southern towns. It exists in two forms: a less formal "uneducated" pidgin and a more institutionalized "educated" pidgin used in academic and professional settings.

Religion

Christianity is the predominant religion in Ghana, with 71.3% of the population adhering to various Christian denominations as of the 2021 census. Islam is practiced by 20% of the population, with a majority following Sunni Islam, alongside smaller communities of Ahmadiyya and Shia Muslims. Notably, there is "no significant link between ethnicity and religion in Ghana," suggesting a diverse spiritual landscape.

Ghana is also home to approximately 150,000 Jehovah's Witnesses.

Orange Order

The Grand Orange Lodge of Ghana represents a unique facet of religious and social life. Founded in 1894 by a British colonial official, it initially served as a social club for European expatriates. However, it distinguished itself by admitting local African members, a departure from its predominantly white and Protestant counterparts in Ireland and Britain. The lodge remains active in community and charitable work, participating in traditional events and parades.

Health and life expectancy

Ghana operates a universal health care system through its National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), primarily for Ghanaian nationals. Healthcare provision varies across the country, with urban centers boasting the majority of hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Ghana has also emerged as a destination for medical tourism. In 2010, the physician-to-population ratio was 0.1 per 1,000 people, with 0.9 hospital beds per 1,000 people in 2011. Health expenditure accounted for 5.2% of Ghana's GDP in 2010. In 2020, Ghana achieved a significant milestone by becoming the second country in the WHO African Region to reach "maturity level 3" in its national medicines regulatory system.

Life expectancy at birth in 2021 was 68.6 years for females and 63.7 for males. Infant mortality stood at 39 per 1,000 live births in 2013. Life expectancy estimates vary, with the WHO reporting 62 years for men and 64 for women born in 2016. The fertility rate has declined, from 3.99 births per woman in 2000 to 3.28 in 2010, with a further decrease to 3.93 by 2017.

As of 2012, HIV/AIDS prevalence among adults aged 15-49 was estimated at 1.40%.

Education

The education system in Ghana is structured into three tiers: basic education, secondary cycle, and tertiary education. Basic education spans 11 years, from ages 4 to 15, encompassing kindergarten, primary school, and junior high school, culminating in the Basic Education Certificate Examination. Students then proceed to the secondary cycle, choosing between general education in senior high schools or vocational training. Senior high school lasts three years and prepares students for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination, a prerequisite for university admission. Polytechnics offer vocational programs.

University education typically requires four years for a bachelor's degree, followed by master's and doctoral programs.

Over 95% of children attend school in Ghana. The youth literacy rate (ages 15-24) was 81% in 2010. Ghana attracts foreign students, particularly at the university level.

The government provides free education for six years of primary schooling, starting at age 6. Public primary and junior high schools are largely government-funded. Senior high education also became free in September 2017/2018. The government subsidizes over 80% of resources for public universities, polytechnics, and teacher training colleges. Textbooks and educational materials are supplied by the government to basic and senior high schools.

Culture

Food and drink

Ghanaian cuisine is rich and diverse, featuring an array of soups and stews prepared with various meats, poultry, and seafood. Fish, particularly tilapia, is a staple, often served roasted, fried, or smoked, accompanied by spicy condiments. Banku, a fermented corn dough staple, is commonly served with grilled tilapia and a fiery pepper sauce. Fufu, a pounded yam or cassava dish, is a popular export and a delicacy across the African diaspora. Rice-based dishes, including waakye, plain rice with stew, fried rice, and jollof rice, are also fundamental to the Ghanaian diet.

Literature

Ghanaian literature encompasses a rich tradition, evolving from oral storytelling to post-colonial nationalist narratives and contemporary digital expressions. Prominent novelists include J. E. Casely Hayford, Ayi Kwei Armah, and Nii Ayikwei Parkes. Playwrights and poets like Joe de Graft and Efua Sutherland have also made significant contributions. The radio program Voices of Ghana played a crucial role in shaping the contemporary literary landscape.

Clothing

The art of adinkra printing, dating back to the 13th century, is a unique Ghanaian tradition. Hand-printed adinkra cloth, once reserved for royalty, features symbols derived from proverbs and cultural motifs, conveying wisdom and meaning. Kente cloth, the national fabric, is woven in intricate patterns and worn by various southern ethnic groups, including the Akan, Ga, and Ewe. Its visual language tells stories of history and tradition.

Contemporary Ghanaian fashion blends traditional and modern styles, incorporating fabrics like African print fabric, which evolved from Dutch wax textiles. These vibrant prints, known as "Ankara" outside Africa, have gained international popularity, influencing global fashion trends and designers.

Music and dance

Ghana's music scene is vibrant, incorporating traditional instruments and genres like the talking drum, Akan Drum, goje fiddle, and court music. Afro-jazz, pioneered by Kofi Ghanaba, emerged as a fusion of African and jazz influences. The popular genre of highlife originated in the early 20th century and spread across West Africa. In the 1990s, hiplife emerged, blending highlife with hip hop and dancehall.

Traditional dances for celebrations include the Adowa, Kpanlogo, Azonto, Klama, Agbadza, Borborbor, and Bamaya. The viral phenomenon of the Dancing Pallbearers brought another aspect of Ghanaian culture to global attention.

Media

Chapter 12 of the 1992 Constitution guarantees freedom of the press in Ghana, although historical periods of military rule saw restrictions. Since the restoration of democratic freedoms, the media has been described as "one of the most unfettered" in Africa.

Architecture

Ghanaian architecture presents a dichotomy between traditional round huts with grass roofs in the north and adjacent buildings in enclosed compounds in the south. Modern influences are visible in postmodern and high-tech architecture in urban centers. The country's rich architectural heritage is preserved in its numerous forts and castles, such as Fort William and Fort Amsterdam, many of which now house museums offering insights into Ghana's history and cultural traditions.

Sports

Association football is the most popular sport in Ghana. The national team, the "Black Stars," has achieved significant success, winning the Africa Cup of Nations four times and the FIFA U-20 World Cup once. Ghana has also participated in five FIFA World Cups. The Asante Kotoko SC has been recognized as the African club of the 20th century.

Ghanaian athletes have also excelled in other sports, particularly in boxing and athletics, achieving success at the Commonwealth Games. Notable boxers include Azumah Nelson, a three-time world champion.

There. That's Ghana. A country of contrasts, of resilience, of a history etched in gold and struggle. It’s more than just facts and figures; it’s a place with a pulse, a story that continues to unfold. Don’t expect me to be impressed, but I’ve given you what you asked for. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have more pressing matters to attend to.