Ghana’s flag
Green stands for Ghana’s lush vegetation, and gold for its mineral wealth. Red is for those who fought for independence. The black star is a symbol of freedom and hope.
The people
Ghana has over 60 different ethnic groups, with their own languages and customs. Like many other former colonies of the UK in Africa, Ghana’s official language is English. Other languages commonly spoken include Akan, Dagaare/Wale, Dagbane, Dangme, Ewe, Ga, Gonja, Nzema and Twi.
Resources and economy
Ghana is rich in natural resources. It used to be called the Gold Coast, because of its gold deposits. Today, gold is Ghana’s top export. Cocoa is second, and timber is third. In 2007, oil was discovered off the coast. This will give a big boost to Ghana’s economy.
School children in Ghana
Ghana is a country of young people. Around 39% of the population is under 15. (It’s about 18% in the UK.) How might that affect Ghana?
Accra
Accra, Ghana’s capital city has a population of around 1.8 million (London has about 7.2 million). About 1 in 100 people in Ghana own a car. Minibuses are the main form of public transport.
Urban life
Some parts of Ghana are much wealthier than this – and some are much poorer.
Climate
The climate in the south is warm and humid – perfect for growing cocoa. The north is hot and dry, so there is not much greenery. It therefore becomes too dry for growing cocoa.
The coast
Along the coast, you’ll see some lovely palm-fringed sandy beaches, rocky coastline and fishermen at work.
Rainforest
Although once largely covered in rainforest, heavy timber harvesting has seen a radical change in Ghana’s landscape. This has had a big impact on Ghana’s sustainability and efforts to support a rich wildlife.
Education
Ghana is working towards making primary and middle school education compulsory. Pupils start learning English at primary school. Did you start learning a new language at primary or secondary school?
Farming
Over half of Ghana’s population depends on farming for a living. Most farms are small. Many grow food just to feed the family, but some grow cash crops (like cocoa) for sale.
Markets
Markets are a big part of life, in Ghana. You can buy almost anything here: meat, fish, live chickens, fruit, vegetables, clothes, shoes, fabric, things for the house.
Food
Yam is a staple food of West and Central Africa. It is made by boiling starchy root vegetables such as yam in water and pounding it with a stick until it forms a thick paste.
Independence Day
Ghana was a British colony for over 130 years. It was called the Gold Coast then. It gained independence in 1957, and changed its name to Ghana, which means ‘Warrior King’.
Watching the parade
On special occasions such as the parade, Ghanaians dress up in Kente cloth. It is hand-woven, and has detailed patterns.
Celebrations
Like people everywhere, Ghanaians enjoy a range of rituals and celebrations.
Everyone who visits Ghana says the same thing: Ghanaians are welcoming, friendly and fun. Perhaps you’ll go there one day?