Ghana Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Ghana, State of West Africa; 238,500 km², 29.8 million residents (2019).Ghana borders in the west to the Ivory Coast, in the north to Burkina Faso and in the east to Togo and has the south coast to the Atlantic. The capital is Accra (2.2 million residents, 2012).

Country facts

Republic of Ghana / Republic of Ghana
Country abbreviation: GH
Area: 238 500 km²
Population (2019): 29.8 million residents
Capital: Accra
Main languages: English, moore
State: Republic
Head of State and Head of Government: Nana Akufo-Addo (President)
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 2,202
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 2 130
Currency unit: 1 cedi = 100 pesewas
Currency code: GHS
Country number (telephony): 233
Internet Domain Name: gh
Time difference compared to Sweden: −1
National Day: March 6 (Independence Day, 1957)

Nature

Land use: forest (38%), agricultural land (23%), other (39%)
Highest mountain: Afadjato (885 m asl)
Largest lake: Lake Volta (8 470 km² )

Population

Population density (2019): 125 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 2.3%; birth number 30 ‰, death number 7 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (38%), 15-64 (59%), 65- (3%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 62 years, women 65 years
Infant mortality (2019): 37 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 52 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.592 (place 140 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 56%
Most populous cities (2012): Accra (2.3 million residents), Kumasi (2 million)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (18%), industry (24%), service (58%)
Exports (2017): US $ 13,840 million
Main export products: oil, gold, cocoa,
Main exporting countries: India, China, Switzerland
Imports (2017): US $ 12,650 million
Main import products: capital goods, oil, food
Main importing countries: China, USA, UK
Railway network (2014): 950 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Ghana is located in West Africa, bordered by Côte d’Ivoire to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south. It lies along the Gulf of Guinea, which is part of the larger Atlantic Ocean, providing it with significant maritime access. Ghana’s location has made it an important player in the regional dynamics of West Africa, both historically and in contemporary times. The country covers an area of about 238,533 square kilometers, making it the 32nd largest country in Africa.

Ghana’s geographical diversity is marked by a range of landforms, from coastal plains to mountainous regions in the north. The country’s strategic location on the coast and its access to the Atlantic have historically shaped its trade routes, as it has served as a major point of contact for global trade, particularly during the colonial era when it was a key center in the transatlantic slave trade.

Major Landforms

Ghana’s topography is divided into several distinct regions, each characterized by unique landforms. The coastal plains, which run along the southern part of the country, are home to Ghana’s major cities, including the capital, Accra, and other significant urban areas like Tema. The coastal region is dominated by beaches, lagoons, and deltas, which have been important historically for trade, particularly with European colonial powers.

To the north, the landscape transitions into the savannah, which is characterized by broad, flat plains with scattered vegetation. This region is marked by a more arid climate compared to the southern part of the country, where rainfall is more frequent. The central part of Ghana is home to the Ashanti uplands, where the terrain is more rugged and hilly, contributing to the region’s strategic and cultural importance. Further north, the landscape becomes more sparsely populated, with larger expanses of savannah and forest transitioning into a semi-arid environment.

The Volta River, one of the largest rivers in West Africa, cuts through the country from the north and flows into the Gulf of Guinea. The river has created a major reservoir, the Lake Volta, which is one of the largest artificial lakes in the world. Lake Volta serves as an important source of water, power, and transportation for the country.

Rivers and Lakes

The rivers of Ghana, particularly the Volta River, play an essential role in the country’s hydrology and economy. The Volta River is the most significant waterway in Ghana, originating from the northern regions of the country and draining into the Gulf of Guinea. The construction of the Akosombo Dam on the Volta River in the 1960s created Lake Volta, which is a major resource for hydropower generation and irrigation. The dam and lake have also contributed to the development of the surrounding areas, providing water for agriculture, industries, and local populations.

Other significant rivers in Ghana include the Pra, Ankobra, and Tano rivers. These rivers are important for agriculture, transportation, and as sources of freshwater for the people living in their respective basins. Ghana’s rivers also provide key resources for fishing, which is an essential activity for many rural communities.

The country’s lakes, including the large Lake Volta, serve as focal points for the surrounding communities, facilitating transportation, fishing, and tourism. The lakes, combined with the rivers, play an important role in Ghana’s agricultural and economic activities.

Climate

Tropical Climate Zones

Ghana’s climate is predominantly tropical, characterized by a marked wet and dry season. The climate varies depending on the region, with the southern coastal areas being more humid and the northern regions experiencing a more pronounced dry season. The tropical climate is ideal for the cultivation of a wide variety of crops, from cocoa and yams to maize and cassava, which contribute significantly to the country’s agricultural economy.

In the southern part of the country, including Accra and the coastal plains, the climate is characterized by two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season lasts from April to October, with peak rainfall occurring in June and September. During this time, the southern regions experience heavy, consistent rainfall, making it a critical time for agricultural production.

In contrast, the northern regions of Ghana experience a more distinct dry season, with less rainfall and higher temperatures. The rainy season in the north is shorter, typically occurring from May to September, with some areas receiving less precipitation than the southern regions. The harmattan, a dry and dusty wind from the Sahara Desert, often affects the northern part of the country during the dry season, bringing cooler temperatures but also contributing to reduced visibility and dusty conditions.

Seasonal Variation

Ghana’s seasonal variation is defined primarily by its two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season, from April to October, brings frequent rainfall, which is vital for agriculture. It is during this time that most of the country’s crops are planted, and farmers rely on the regular precipitation to irrigate their fields. However, the wet season also brings challenges, such as the risk of flooding in urban areas, particularly in Accra, and the impact of the rains on infrastructure.

The dry season, from November to March, is marked by reduced rainfall and higher temperatures. During this time, the country experiences the harmattan, which brings drier air and cooler nights, particularly in the northern regions. This season is critical for harvesting and for many agricultural activities, including the planting of crops like maize, rice, and groundnuts. In the southern parts of Ghana, the dry season is characterized by lower humidity, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities and contributing to the popularity of tourism.

People

Demographics

Ghana has a population of approximately 31 million people, making it the second-most populous country in West Africa. The population is highly diverse, with more than 70 ethnic groups living in the country. The largest ethnic groups include the Akan, Mole-Dagbani, Ewe, and Ga-Dangme, each with their own distinct languages, customs, and traditions. The diversity of ethnic groups in Ghana has contributed to a rich cultural heritage, though it has also presented challenges related to regional and ethnic tensions.

The population of Ghana is concentrated in urban areas, particularly in the capital city, Accra, which is the largest city in the country. Other major cities include Kumasi, Takoradi, and Tamale. Despite significant urbanization in recent decades, the majority of the population still resides in rural areas, where agriculture is the primary occupation. Many rural communities rely on subsistence farming, with crops such as maize, cassava, yams, and rice serving as staple foods.

Ghana has a youthful population, with a median age of about 21 years. This presents both opportunities and challenges for the country, as a young workforce can contribute to economic growth, but there are also concerns related to unemployment, especially among the youth, and the need for education and skills development. The country has experienced rapid population growth in recent decades, contributing to urbanization, while also presenting challenges in terms of infrastructure, healthcare, and housing.

Language and Religion

Ghana is a multilingual country, with over 80 different languages spoken across its regions. The official language is English, which is used in government, education, and business. English has been the official language since Ghana gained independence from Britain in 1957, and it is the medium of instruction in schools and universities. Despite English being the official language, many Ghanaians speak local languages in everyday life. The most widely spoken indigenous languages are Akan, Ewe, Twi, and Dagbani, with each ethnic group having its own linguistic traditions and dialects.

Religion plays an important role in Ghanaian society, with Christianity being the dominant religion. Approximately 70% of the population identifies as Christian, with Roman Catholicism, Protestantism, and Pentecostalism being the largest Christian denominations. Christianity was introduced by European missionaries during the colonial period, and it has become deeply integrated into Ghanaian culture and society.

Islam is the second-largest religion in Ghana, with about 17% of the population identifying as Muslim. Islam has a long history in Ghana, dating back to the 15th century when traders and travelers from North Africa introduced the religion. Islam is most prevalent in the northern regions of the country, where the majority of the population follows the faith. Traditional African religions, including various forms of animism and ancestor worship, are also practiced by a minority of the population, particularly in rural areas.

Education and Social Structure

Education is highly valued in Ghana, and the government has made significant investments in expanding access to education at all levels. Primary education is free and compulsory, and literacy rates have improved significantly in recent years. However, challenges remain, particularly in rural areas where access to quality education can be limited by infrastructure issues, teacher shortages, and financial constraints. Secondary and tertiary education is expanding, with several universities and technical institutes offering opportunities for higher education.

Ghana has a relatively young population, and social structures in rural communities are often based on traditional family and community values. Extended families are common, and elders play an important role in decision-making. In urban areas, nuclear families are more typical, but communal living and mutual support remain important aspects of social life. The country is also home to a variety of social organizations and associations, ranging from ethnic and religious groups to youth and women’s organizations, that foster community engagement and development.

Economy

Economic Overview

Ghana has a mixed economy, with key sectors including agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and services. The country has experienced significant economic growth in recent years, particularly due to its expanding oil industry and the increasing demand for its mineral resources. Agriculture remains a critical part of the economy, contributing to both employment and exports. Ghana is one of the largest producers of cocoa in the world, and the country’s cocoa industry plays a key role in its economy. Other agricultural products include gold, timber, oil palm, and rubber.

Mining is another significant contributor to Ghana’s economy, with the country being one of the top gold producers in the world. Ghana has abundant natural resources, including gold, bauxite, manganese, and diamonds, and the mining sector has attracted substantial foreign investment. The discovery and production of oil and gas have further boosted the country’s economic prospects, with offshore oil fields contributing to the national budget and providing new opportunities for industrial development.

Services, particularly in retail, finance, telecommunications, and tourism, are growing sectors in Ghana’s economy. Tourism has become an important driver of growth, with visitors drawn to Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, historic sites, and natural beauty. The country’s growing middle class and urbanization have contributed to the expansion of the consumer goods and services sectors.

Challenges and Opportunities

Ghana faces several economic challenges, including income inequality, unemployment, and the need for diversification. While the country has made significant progress in reducing poverty and boosting economic growth, there are concerns about the uneven distribution of wealth and the concentration of economic opportunities in urban areas. Unemployment, particularly among youth and women, remains high, and there are ongoing efforts to improve education, skills development, and job creation.

However, Ghana also has significant opportunities for future growth. The expanding oil and gas sector provides a solid foundation for economic development, and there is potential for growth in industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and infrastructure. Ghana’s natural resources, including its fertile land and minerals, offer opportunities for sustainable development, particularly in the context of green energy and environmental protection.

The tourism sector holds significant promise for economic diversification, as the country’s unique cultural heritage and natural landscapes continue to attract international visitors. Additionally, the ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, such as transportation, energy, and telecommunications, could further facilitate economic growth and integration into the global economy.

Government

Political Structure

Ghana is a democratic republic with a multi-party political system. The president is both the head of state and head of government, and is elected for a four-year term by popular vote. The president has significant executive powers, including the ability to appoint ministers, veto legislation, and direct government policies. Ghana’s parliament consists of a unicameral legislature with 275 members, who are also elected every four years through a system of proportional representation.

The government is based on the Constitution of Ghana, which was adopted in 1992 following the end of military rule. Ghana’s political system is characterized by regular elections, political pluralism, and a commitment to democratic principles. The judiciary is independent, and the country has a well-established legal framework that supports human rights and the rule of law. Ghana has a reputation for political stability in West Africa, with peaceful transitions of power and a relatively free press.

Political History

Ghana has a rich political history, marked by its role as the first African country to gain independence from colonial rule. Ghana achieved independence from Britain in 1957, under the leadership of Kwame Nkrumah, who became the country’s first president. Nkrumah’s vision for a united Africa and his focus on economic modernization made him a prominent figure in both Ghanaian and Pan-African politics. However, his government was overthrown in a military coup in 1966, leading to a series of political changes in the following decades.

Ghana experienced several military coups and periods of authoritarian rule throughout the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. However, the country transitioned to democracy in 1992 with the adoption of a new constitution and the establishment of a multi-party political system. Since then, Ghana has held regular elections, and political power has alternated between major political parties, including the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Ghana’s political system is based on the principles of democracy, human rights, and political accountability, and the country has become a model for democratic governance in Africa. However, challenges remain, particularly with regard to corruption, governance, and economic inequality. Nonetheless, Ghana continues to be a beacon of political stability and democratic progress in the region.