Scuba Diving in

Ghana

Ghana, officially the Republic of Ghana, is a country located in West Africa. It is bordered by Côte d’Ivoire to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea to the south. Ghana has a rich history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a popular tourist destination.

Marine Species in

Ghana

Dive Centres in

Ghana

Geography

Ghana covers a total area of 238,533 square kilometers (92,100 sq mi). The country is characterized by a diverse landscape, ranging from coastal plains and lagoons to rolling hills and plateaus. The highest point in Ghana is Mount Afadjato, which stands at 885 meters (2,904 ft) above sea level. The Volta River, the largest river in Ghana, flows through the country and forms the Volta Lake, one of the largest artificial lakes in the world.

Population

Ghana has a population of approximately 31.5 million people. The majority of the population is concentrated in the southern and coastal regions of the country. The country has a diverse population, with several ethnic groups, including the Akan, Ewe, Ga-Dangme, and Mole-Dagbani. The official language of Ghana is English, but several local languages are also spoken.

Culture

Ghanaian culture is rich and vibrant, with a strong emphasis on music, dance, and traditional arts. The country is renowned for its traditional drumming and singing, as well as its intricate woodcarvings and textiles. The national symbol of Ghana is the Black Star, which represents hope, freedom, and unity.

Economy

Ghana is a developing country with a diversified economy. The main sectors of the economy are agriculture, mining, and services. Ghana is a leading producer of cocoa beans, gold, and timber. The country also has a growing manufacturing sector and a burgeoning tourism industry.

History

Ghana has a long and complex history. The region was home to several ancient empires, including the Akan Empire and the Ashanti Empire. The Portuguese arrived in the 15th century, followed by other European powers. Ghana gained independence from British rule in 1957, becoming the first sub-Saharan African country to achieve independence. Since independence, Ghana has experienced periods of political and economic instability, but it has also made significant progress in developing its economy and strengthening its democracy.

Major Landmarks

Ghana is home to several notable landmarks, including:

  • The National Museum: Located in Accra, the capital city, the National Museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase Ghana's rich history and culture.
  • Cape Coast Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cape Coast Castle is a former slave trading post that played a significant role in the Atlantic slave trade. It is now a museum that commemorates the history of slavery in Ghana.
  • The Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum: This mausoleum is dedicated to Kwame Nkrumah, the first president of Ghana. It is located in Accra and is a popular tourist destination.
  • Kakum National Park: This national park is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and reptiles. It is also known for its stunning rainforest canopy walk.