Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Ghana
CapitalAccra
Population33.7 million
Area238,533 km² (92,098 sq mi)
LanguagesEnglish
CurrencyGhanaian cedi (₵)
TimezoneUTC
RegionAfrica / Western Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Notable Achievements
| Category | Achievement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Science | GhanaSat-1 | Ghana launched its first satellite, GhanaSat-1, into space in 2017, becoming one of the first countries in Sub-Saharan Africa to achieve this feat |
| Sports | Black Stars Football Team | The Ghana national football team, known as the Black Stars, has qualified for the FIFA World Cup three times, reaching the quarterfinals in 2010 |
| Arts | Kente Cloth Weaving | Ghana is renowned for its traditional Kente cloth weaving, a colorful textile art form that has gained international recognition and is now exhibited in museums worldwide |
| Development | Millennium Development Goals | Ghana made significant progress in achieving the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals, particularly in reducing poverty and increasing access to education |
| Innovation | Moringa Oil Production | Ghana has become a leading producer of Moringa oil, a valuable commodity used in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries, with many local companies innovating in this sector |
| Global Contributions | United Nations Peacekeeping | Ghana has contributed troops to numerous United Nations peacekeeping missions, demonstrating its commitment to global peace and security |
| Education | University of Ghana | The University of Ghana, established in 1948, is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning in West Africa, attracting students from across the continent |
Cultural Treasures
- The Cape Coast Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historic fort that serves as a reminder of Ghana's complex past and its role in the transatlantic slave trade.
- The Asante Gold Regalia, a collection of gold jewelry and ornaments, is a priceless cultural treasure that showcases the rich heritage of the Asante people.
- The Ewe Kente Cloth Weaving tradition is a vibrant and colorful art form that has been passed down through generations, with each piece telling a unique story and symbolizing the community's history and values.
- The Homowo Festival, celebrated by the Ga people, is a traditional harvest festival that honors the gods and ancestors, featuring music, dance, and traditional food.
- The Bantama Highlife Music style, which originated in the 1920s, is a unique blend of traditional Akan music and Western influences, and has become an integral part of Ghanaian popular culture.
People & Global Impact
- Kofi Annan, the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations, was a Ghanaian diplomat who played a key role in promoting global peace and development.
- The Ghanaian diaspora has made significant contributions to the global economy, with many Ghanaians living abroad remitting funds back to their families and communities.
- Dr. Ama Ata Aidoo, a renowned Ghanaian author and playwright, has written extensively on the experiences of African women and the impact of colonialism on traditional societies.
- The values of community and respect for elders are deeply ingrained in Ghanaian culture, with many Ghanaians prioritizing family and social relationships above personal achievements.
What Visitors Love
- The warm hospitality of the Ghanaian people, who are known for their welcoming nature and generosity towards visitors.
- The delicious local cuisine, which features dishes such as jollof rice, fufu, and banku, often served with a variety of spicy sauces and stews.
- The stunning natural scenery, including the scenic coastline, the rolling hills of the Volta Region, and the vibrant markets of Accra and Kumasi.
- The rich cultural heritage, which is evident in the many museums, historical sites, and traditional festivals that take place throughout the year.
- The vibrant music and dance scene, which features a wide range of traditional and contemporary styles, from Highlife to Azonto.
- The thriving arts and crafts industry, which offers a wide range of unique and colorful textiles, wood carvings, and other handicrafts.
Hidden Gems
- The Kakum National Park, which is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including monkeys, birds, and butterflies, and offers a unique canopy walkway for visitors to explore.
- The Wli Waterfalls, which are located in the Volta Region and offer a stunning natural wonder, with the largest waterfall in West Africa.
- The Bui National Park, which is a protected area that is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and antelopes, and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the natural beauty of Ghana.
- The Akuapem Hills, which offer a scenic and peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking and birdwatching.