Ghana
Eco-friendly travel guide to Ghana advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to travel in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Ghana, Africa.
- Air quality: 3.8 / 5
- Bus connections: 3.9 / 5
- Train connections: 3.3/ 5
- Hitchhiking: 3.9 / 5
- National parks: 4.4 / 5
- Outdoor activities: 4.1 / 5
- Locals' English level: 4.5 / 5
- Safety: 3.6 / 5
- Accommodation: US$17 - $279
- Budget per day: US$35- $332
Contents
Responsible Travel
Being a tourist in today's world comes with its own set of responsibilities and obligations. The change climate of the planet urges us to be more responsible and take accountability for our actions and also study the impact we have on the environment. One must travel in an eco friendly way and ensure that the local citizens or the natural surroundings are not affected. These are some of the most crucial tips that vacationers must follow to travel responsibly.
- Use water responsibly: There are seasons where Ghana does not experience any rain thus the country heavily depends on the water reservoirs for water. We would be conserving the water in these reservoirs when we are sensitive on how we use the water.
- Participate in initiatives that aim to improve the lives of Ghanaians: Several non-profit organizations have come into the county with the aim in bettering the living standards of locals here in the country. They target to improve the health, social well-being, and the environment of the country and its people.
- Use public transport: When we use public transport, we reduce the number of vehicles that will be on the road as many travelers going to the same destination on few vehicles. We would also reduce the time spent in jam congestions as it is easy to control fewer vehicles on the road. We will also be reducing the carbon footprint in the air as only very few vehicles will be on the road at any one time. We will also have fun interacting with locals Ata a personal level.
- Promote the local economy: When you buy souvenirs and artifacts here, you will be contributing to the living standards of local artists as well as the economy at large. You are advised to buy directly from the local markets so that the money goes directly to the local economy.
- Seek eco-friendly accommodations: Several accommodation facilities in the country prioritize conservation such as collection and recycle of rainwater among other conservation measures. You are advised to book such hotels and lodges to improve these conservation strategies.
- Appreciate the wild animals: Ghana has various fauna species within its borders. You will get to have fun when you visit the various animal sanctuaries and national parks in the country and get to interact with these animals at a personal level.
Air Quality and Pollution
The air quality in Ghana has increased rapidly over time. The country realized that it has a waste problem and international organizations came in to try and reduce waste accumulation in the country. In terms of pollution, the national government has been putting in effort to try and reduce the amount of pollutants in the soil, air, and water. In terms of air pollution, foul smell is the greatest threat. It is usually generated by waste accumulated in disposal points. In the soil, non-biodegradable waste pollutes the soil. Households are usually the greatest generators of waste which when it is not disposed of properly, it ends up polluting the soil.
Respect the Culture
Ghana has some of the most diverse cultures in the continent. There are many communities here in the country with the most notable ones being the Akans located in the central and South regions of the country, the Ga and Adangbe towards the eastern region, the Dagombas, Gurunsi and Mamprusi towards the north of the country, and the Guang communities located in the highland regions of Ghana. English is believed to be the official language of Ghana. Interestingly enough, local languages are taught in schools located in the rural areas of the country. In terms of music, the communities here have embraced three distinctive types of music which are traditional music, which is usually played in festivals and funerals, "highlife" music which is a mixture of traditional and foreign music, and the last one being choral music which is usually performed in churches, schools, and concerts. In terms of dancing, each community usually has its own traditional dance. There are specific dances usually performed during special festivals such as funerals, weddings, praise and worship, and storytelling events. Some of these traditional dances include the Gome' dance performance during the Homowo festival, kpalongo dance performed by the Gas, Agbadza by the Ewes,Bambaya dance performed by communities from the North, Patsa dance performed by the Ga-Adangbes, and the Adowa dance performed by the Akans.
Top 10 Places to Visit
- Accra: It is the capital city of Ghana. It is the largest city in Ghana and is the main economic hub in the country. The atmosphere created here is usually natural. You will find very many markets here where you can shop for various souvenirs and other products such as appliances, groceries, clothes, and even vehicles. You will also be able to find buildings that were constructed during the colonial period. You will also be able to see some of the amazing monuments and city parks located here. You can also visit the national museum located here in the capital where you can learn about the culture of the city and its people. You can also visit the various beaches dotted here in the capital. You can also visit the various UN offices located here in the capital.
- St. Georges Castle: It is one of the historical sites found here in Ghana. It was constructed in 1482 where its walls are white in color. It was constructed by the Portuguese. It is associated with slave trade where the slaves were housed in the dungeons here in the castle. You are also advised the picturesque town where you will meet local guides who will explain to you the clear history of this place.
- Lake Volta"': It is the largest man-made lake in the world. The surrounding landscape here is usually beautiful with the atmosphere created here being very relaxing. It was formed when the Akosombo dam was built over the Volta River. You are advised to visit the Dodi Island when you visit this lake. Fishing is usually carried on one part of the lake. You may just choose to take a stroll to the dam. Various flashy restaurants have been constructed next to this lake.
- Aburi Botanical Garden: It is located in the Eastern region of Ghana. It covers a total area of 64.8 hectares. Its inception was inspired by Governor William Brandford-Griffith and Dr John Farrell Easmon, who was a medical doctor from Sierra Leone. It was officially commissioned in 1890. Before it was a garden, it used to be a sanatorium which was constructed in 1875 for the purpose of offering health services to Gold Coast government officials.
- Kumasi: This city was the initial capital of Ghana when the Ashanti Kingdom was still in existence. This city is usually filled with multiple markets where you can conveniently shop for products that you need. It is usually frequented by many tourists. Some of the products that you can buy at the markets here include gold, wooden stools, and kente cloth. Here, you will also find the Manhiya Palace Museum where you will get to learn about the history of the Ashanti Kingdom.
- Lake Bosumtwe: It is the only natural lake in the country. It is believed to have been formed when a meteorite struck the Ashanti area in Ghana a very long time ago. It was considered as a sacred lake by the Ashanti community who believed that spirits of dead people came here to bid farewell to the God Twi. It is believed to be a pilgrimage site. The depth here is approximately 90 meters. Activities that you can engage in while here include horseback riding, water sports, hiking, biking, picnicking, and walking tours.
- Sekondi-Takoradi: This city is a combination of two mini cities, Sekondi and Takoradi. It is the capital of the Western Region of Ghana. Here, you will be able to find various industrial and commercial centers.
- Nzulezu Ghana: It refers to 'surface of water. The houses found here are constructed on a lagoon. Here, you will get to appreciate how the locals are very innovative on how they construct their houses. Several restaurants have been constructed to ensure that visitors here get a very enjoyable time here. Various activities have been introduced here including swimming, diving, and boat riding. You can also see various animals such as monkeys and even crocodiles.
- Paga Crocodile Pond: Here you will be able to see many crocodiles how they are raised and fed. These crocodiles are usually friendly to an extent that you can get very close to them. You will also get a chance to feed these crocodiles. Guides are usually here so do not be afraid as they are always on standby to attend to you.
- Kokrobite Beach: It is located several kilometers from Accra city center. There are several resorts here where one can relax and enjoy a fun time here at this beach. One of the popular attraction site located at this beach is the Academy of African Music and Art where art lovers are guaranteed to have a good time. The Homowo festival is also held here in May of every year attracting a huge number of tourists.
Explore
Ghana is a very diverse country located in West Africa. You can visit some of the amazing attraction sites here in the country including Lake Volta, Paga Crocodile Pond, and Nzulezu Ghana where you can make memories. You can also visit the National Museum of Ghana where you can learn about the history and culture of the country and its people. You can also visit various restaurants including the Buka Restaurant and the Tatale Vegan Restaurant where you can enjoy both local and international cuisines being offered here. You can also relax on some of the most beautiful beaches here in the country including Labadi Beach and Busua Beach where you can have fun and participate in various activities found in these beaches.
City Parks
- Efua Sutherland Children's Park: This public is located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. It is located adjacent to the National Theatre. It was commissioned in 1979 where it was named the Accra Children's Park. It was later renamed to Efua Sutherland Children's Park, to honor Efua Sutherland who was an author and play writer from Ghana.
National Parks
- Mole National Park: It is the largest park in the country. Some of the wild animals that you will get to see here include elephants, leopards, buffaloes, hyenas, and antelopes. There are also more than 250 bird species living in this park.
- Kakum National Park: This park consists majorly of rainforests. It is located in the southern part of the country. Animals that you will get to see here include elephants, meerkats, civets, and wild beasts. There are also several bird species here in this park. It also has the Canopy Walkway which is a very important attraction site here at this park.
Beaches
- Busua Beach: Here, you will get to relax and enjoy the amazing sun. There are several restaurants nearby where you can buy tasty delicacies including fried lobsters. Surfing classes are conducted here. There are also local vendors selling various products dotted along the coastline.
- Labadi Beach: This beach has beautiful sand where you can have fun and swim in the ocean. Several restaurants are located at this beach where you will get to enjoy amazing delicacies and cocktails. You will be required to pay an entry fee before accessing this beach. Local live entertainment is usually available at this beach.
Landmarks
- The Larabanga Mosque: It is located in Larabanga village in Ghana. It is believed to be the pioneer mosque in Ghana and one of the oldest in West Africa region. It was constructed in 1421 and has been renovated severally. It is considered as one of the top 100 endangered sites in the world.
Museums
- The National Museum of Ghana: It is located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. It is the largest museum in the country. Here, you will be able to learn about the history of Ghana and its people. You will also be able to see some of the historic artifacts found here. It was commissioned on March 1957.
- Ussher Fort: This museum was constructed in 1649 by the Dutch. It was initially referred to Fort Crèvecur. It was used to commemorate the day people walked from Elmina to Accra. It is among the three forts built by Europeans in the country.
Eat
- The Buka Restaurant: It is situated in Osu, Ghana. The ambiance created here is usually amazing. Here, you will be able an indoor and outdoor seating area. Air conditioning is also installed here. You will be able to enjoy local cuisines here at affordable prices. Some of the local dishes you will get to enjoy here include fufu, grilled tilapia, roasted gumie fowl, and even groundnut soup. It is usually frequented by a lot of locals. You can get in touch with the management here using this number, +233244842464.
- Tatale Vegan Restaurant: This vegan restaurant is located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. Here you will be able to vegan delicacies where portions are usually generous. The prices offered here are very reasonable. It is usually open alb through the week where from Sunday to Friday it is open from 11 am to 9:30 pm while on Saturdays, it is open between 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm. You can get in touch with the management here using this number, +233 30 295 6020
- Santoku: It is located in Villagio tower in Ghana. Adequate sitting is available both on chairs also on the floor. This restaurant is usually a luxurious one where the services that you will get are high class. You will get a chance to choose from a wide selection of delicacies from the diverse menu found here. You will also be able to enjoy Japanese delicacies here. You can get in touch with the management here using this number, l +233544311511.
- Captain Hook's: It is located in Sekondi-Takoradi, Ghana. The atmosphere created here is usually very friendly. You will be able to enjoy tasty seafood that is usually fresh. You will also have a variety of international cuisines to choose from. You can get in touch with the management here using this number, +233244330675
Drink
- Cactus Moon Bar: This bar has embraced the traditional theme in its architecture. You will be able to enjoy a wide variety of cocktails offered here. This bar also offers a strong selection of gin, rum, and tequila.
- SAI Wine & Champagne Bar: The atmosphere created here is usually amazing. The interior decor 9f this bar is very homely. It is usually a romantic spot where couples can enjoy the warm ambiance generated here. You will be able to enjoy a wide selection of wine and champagnes here. There is also a snack bar here where you can enjoy tasty sandwiches among other snacks.
- Champs Sports Bar & Grill: You will be able to enjoy a variety of activities here including karaoke nights, live events, and movie nights on Sunday. Several pool tables and TVs here in this bar. Tasty delicacies such as steaks, chips, chicken wings, and grilled fish.
Tap-water
You are advised to drink bottled water while in Ghana. Though the tap water here in the country appears clean, we can't be sure that it is safe for human consumption. Just to be sure, it is best that you can only drink tap water after you have boiled it or mixed with water purification tablets.
Activities
Ghana is a very diverse country located in West Africa. You can visit some of the amazing attraction sites here in the country including Lake Volta, Paga Crocodile Pond, and Nzulezu Ghana where you can make memories. You can also visit the National Museum of Ghana where you can learn about the history and culture of the country and its people. You can also visit various restaurants including the Buka Restaurant and the Tatale Vegan Restaurant where you can enjoy both local and international cuisines being offered here. You can also relax on some of the most beautiful beaches here in the country including Labadi Beach and Busua Beach where you can have fun and participate in various activities found in these beaches.
Accommodation
- Omanye Lodge: It is situated in Dzorwulu, Ghana. Guests here will get to enjoy free Wi-Fi, a garden, and ample parking. The rooms here are fitted with a flat-screen TV and a personal bathroom. Guests here will get to enjoy 24-hour reception services, airport shuttle services, and a tour desk courtesy of the management. Guests will also get to enjoy a continental breakfast here every morning. The Kotoka International Airport is a 5 km from the property.
Green Hotels
- Accra Marriott Hotel: It is located in Accra, the capital of Ghana. Guests here will get to enjoy a garden, an outdoor swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, a gym, 3 restaurants, and a bar on site. The management here has employed a more environmentally friendly method of cooking, i.e., using electricity as the source of heat thus reducing the amount of carbon monoxide being released in to the air. The rooms here are fitted with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, power points, a work desk, air conditioning, and a personal bathroom. Guests will be able to enjoy a buffet breakfast every morning. The hosts here are multilingual as they do speak English, French, and Spanish. Guests will be able to enjoy a 24-hour reception service, car rental services, and airport shuttle services. Conference facilities are also available at this hotel.
- Accra City Hotel: This hotel is located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. It is situated a few kilometers from the nearby beach. Amenities that you will get to enjoy here include an outdoor swimming pool, a tennis court, free Wi-Fi, and a gym. The management here has installed various water tanks within the complex to collect rain water. The rooms here are fitted with a flat-screen TV, a fridge, a minibar, and a personal bathroom. Guests will be able to enjoy a complimentary breakfast every morning here. Popular points of interest located next to this hotel include Kotoka International Airport which is located 8 kilometers from this hotel. The management here offers free shuttle services to its guests.
- Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City: This hotel is located in Accra, the capital of Ghana. Guests here will get to enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, a bar, a gym, free Wi-Fi, and ample parking on site. The rooms here are fitted with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, air conditioning, and a lounge area in some rooms. Car rental services and free shuttle services are offered by the management here. Popular points of interest located close to this hotel include Accra Sports Stadium which is located less than a kilometer away from this hotel, the Independence Square which is located 1.1 kilometers away and the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park which is located 1.2 kilometers from this property.
- Maple Leaf Hotel: It is located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. Amenities that guests will get to enjoy here include a spa and a bar on site. The rooms here are fitted with a satellite TV, a work desk, a wardrobe, and a personal bathroom. Guests here will get to enjoy a continental breakfast here. Popular points of interest located close to thus hotel include Achimota Mall which is located 2 kilometers away, Achimota Golf Course which is located 4 kilometers away, and Kotoka International Airport which is located 10 kilometers away.
Hostels and Guest Houses
- Brannic Lodge: Is located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. Here, you will get to enjoy a garden, a shared seating area, free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen, and ample parking on-site. Popular points of interest located close to this property include Loom-Artists Alliance Gallery which is located 2.2 kilometers from this property, Koala Shopping Center which is located 2.4 kilometers away, Osu Castle which is 2.5 located kilometers away, Independence Arch which is located 2.8 kilometers away, Kwame Nkrumah Memorial which is located 3.9 kilometers away, and the Kotoka International Airport which is located 5 kilometers away from this property.
- Somewhere Nice: This hostel is located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. Amenities that guests will get to enjoy here include a garden, a terrace, an outdoor swimming pool, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. The units here are fitted with air conditioning, a work desk, a wardrobe, and a personal bathroom. Guests will get the opportunity to choose between a continental and a vegetarian breakfast here every morning. You will also get to enjoy 24-hour reception services here. Popular points of interest located close to this hostel include Poly Clinic which is located 1.7 kilometers away; Canada Embassy which is located 1.8 kilometers away, Big tree is located 2.1 kilometers away while Kotoka Airport is located 5 kilometers from this property.
- Johann western guesthouse: It is situated in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. Guests here will get to enjoy a garden, a bar, and ample parking on site. Every unit here has air conditioning and a flat-screen TV. Guests here will get to enjoy either an English breakfast or an Irish breakfast here every morning. Popular points of interest located close to this guest house include La Palm Casino which is located 7 kilometers away, Accra Mall which is located 8 kilometers away, Loom-Artists Alliance Gallery which is located 9 kilometers away, and Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park which is located 14 kilometers from this guest house. The Kotoka International Airport is located 7 kilometers from this property.
- Konkon Wonderland: Is situated in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. Amenities that you will get to enjoy here include a garden, a restaurant, a bar, and ample parking on-site. The units here are fitted with a minibar, air conditioning, and a personal bathroom. Services that you will get to enjoy here include 24-hour reception services, laundry services, and ironing services.
- Tumi Hostel: This hostel is situated in Kumasi, Accra. Amenities that you will get to enjoy here include a garden, a shared lounge area, free Wi-Fi, a bar, and ample parking on site. You will be able to enjoy 24-hour reception services here. Guests will get an opportunity to choose between a continental breakfast and a vegetarian breakfast every morning here. Popular points of interest located close to this guest house include Kumasi City Mall which is located 1.6 kilometers away, Kumasi Airport which is located 4 kilometers away while Manhyia Palace and Kumasi Cultural Centre are both located 5 kilometers from this property.
Apartments
- Connect Africa Apartments: It is located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. Every unit here has a flat-screen TV and a lounge area with some rooms being additionally fitted with an oven and a kitchen. Guests here will get to enjoy a continental breakfast every morning here. Guests will also get to enjoy 24-hour reception services. The management here has set up conferencing facilities here. Popular points of interest located close to this property include Accra Mall which is located 10 kilometers away, Marina Mall which is located 12 kilometers away, Wheel Story House which is located 15 kilometers away, La Palm Casino which is located 16 kilometers away, and the Independence Arch, which is located 22 kilometers from this property. The Kotoka International Airport is located 10 kilometers from these apartments.
- Accra Luxury Apartments: These apartments are located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. Amenities that you will get to enjoy here include an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, a gym, free Wi-Fi, and ample parking on site. The rooms here have air conditioning, a flat screen TV with cable channels, a lounge area, a dining area, a balcony, a terrace, a patio, a fully equipped kitchen, and a personal bathroom. Here, you will be able to enjoy scenic views of city. Car rental services are offered with the management here where sightseeing tours can also e arranged. Airport shuttle services are available at this property. The nearest popular point of interest located close to these apartments is the Kotoka Airport which is located 3 kilometers from this property.
- VAN DE SALLE: These apartments are located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. Ample parking is available on site. All the rooms here are flitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen, and a personal bathroom. Some rooms also have a lounge area and a dining area. Popular points if interest located close to this property include Trust Hospital and Koala Mall both of which are located 500 meters away while Kotoka Airport is located 4 kilometers from this property.
Couchsurfing
Locals here have embraced kind heartedness and are more than willing to host visitors into their homes. You will need to enroll in various legit websites that offer Couch surfing services in Ghana. You will get to link up with potential hosts and discuss how you are going to meet when you visit Ghana.
Camping
- Maranatha Beach Camp: The staff here is usually very friendly and will warmly welcome you here. This campsite has enough grounds where you can pitch more than five tents. You will get to enjoy the tasty delicacies being offered here. The profits being made here is usually used to improve the surrounding society.
Regions
Coastal Plain (Accra, Apam, Cape Coast, Elmina, Kakum National Park, Kokrobite, Nzulezo, Sekondi-Takoradi, Ada) The Gulf of Guinea coastal area with the capital city, several forts, and the best preserved rainforest in the country. |
Ashanti-Kwahu (Koforidua, Kumasi, Obuasi, Sunyani) Forested hills and the ancient Ashanti kingdom. |
Volta Basin (Tamale) The massive Lake Volta, the river system that feeds it, and border crossings to Togo. |
Northern Plains (Bolgatanga, Mole National Park, Wa) Savanna plains and the traditional trade routes with Burkina Faso. |
Cities
- Accra: It is the capital city of Ghana. Here, you will find the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, which was established in honor of the first president of the country. At this park, you will find the Nkrumah mausoleum. Makola Market Is located here in the city. You will also get to visit some of the amazing beaches in the country here in the capital which include Kokrobite Beach and Labadi Beach.
- Kumasi: It is the headquarters of the Ashanti Region. Here, the Ashanti culture is the most dominant. You will be able to visit the National Cultural Centre where you will be entertained by amazing live dance events. You will also be able to buy souvenirs here. You will also be able to visit the Prempeh II Jubilee Museum, where you will get to learn about the history of the Kumasi city and the Ashanti people.
- Tema: It is located along the coast of Ghana. It is situated approximately 25 kilometers from Accra. It is the headquarters of the Tema area.
- Cape Coast: It is the capital city of the Central region. It is located towards the south of the country. It is famous for being one of the cities used during the slave trade era. Here, you will find the Cape Coast Castle which was constructed in the 17th century by the Swedish. The British later took over this castle and used it as a prison for slaves. You will also find various artifacts that were used during the colonial period.
Other cities found here in Ghana include:
- Elmina — coastal town with a quite harrowing slave fort.
- Koforidua - regional capital of the Eastern Region.
- Obuasi — mining town.
- Sekondi-Takoradi Also known as twin city or oil city.
- Tamale — largest city in the north and gateway to Mole National Park.It is also the fastest growing metropolis in Ghana.
Getting There and Moving Around
Ghana is a country located in West Africa with its capital being Accra. You can access the country by air, by road, by rail, and by sea. By air, you can enter the country through Kotoka International Airport. Road transport has continued to improve in the country thanks to the efforts by the national government to improve various roads in the country. The best way to move around in the country is by using taxis. You will be able to reach your destination more safely and more conveniently. You will also be able to appreciate more the attraction sites you will be visiting as you will be having ample time when you take a taxi. You can negotiate the price with the taxi driver.
Air
Ghana's main international airport, Kotoka International Airport, serves many international airlines operating in and out of Ghana. This airport is the official entry point by air into the country.
Bus
Busses are the most common mode of transport in the country. They usually ferry passengers to many destinations in the country including the capital Accra. As the government is making progress in improving the road transport in the country, many bus companies are emerging to offer their services in the country. At least nearly all the region headquarters have paved roads thus, busses easily access these areas.
Train
Railway transport in the country covers a total area of 950 kilometers. It forms the shape of a triangle as it is connects three major cities in the country which are Accra, Takoradi, and Tema. The main purpose of railway transport in the country is for transporting farm produce and minerals in the country such as cocoa, timber and timber. There are also several passenger carriages which transports passengers through these three cities.
Hitchhiking
Many of the motorists here in Ghana are usually kind hearted thus hitchhiking is not an uphill task here. You can motion with your hand and a motorist en-route to your destination will stop and you will get the chance to interact with them at personal level.
Others
Ghana has the prestine Volta Lake within her borders which was constructed during the 1960s. The Akosombo dam built over River Volta led to the formation of the lake. This lake is the largest man-made lake in the world. Several inland ports are dotted in various points along this lake providing an alternative form of transport by mostly small boats. The Volta Lake Transport Company (VLTC) oversees all transportation activities in this lake. You can safely traverse some parts of Ghana by tugs and barges via this lake.
Sustainable Shopping
The cloth designing industry in the country has taken a turn for the better as the designers in the country continue to work towards incorporating environmental friendly clothing materials into their industry. Many of the locals here are self employed in the tailoring business in the country making it the major source of income in the country. Since only a few Ghanaians can afford the expensive clothes sold in malls and boutique shops, many tend to shop in outdoor markets or use the pre-order method where you will get to have your clothes handmade. These markets are the main targets of the zero waste clothing campaign.
Recycling
Since a majority of the population in Ghana is unemployed, some have embraced the waste sorting and recycling business to earn a living from. The recycling venture hasn't picked up yet in the country but is slowly growing. Metals are the majority of the wastes being recycled as many would sweep through various dumping grounds to seek out metal scraps which they collect then sell them to recycling companies.
Waste
Ghana still continues to face a huge problem of waste accumulation in the country. Illegal dumping has been on the rise as the process of waste generation supersedes that of waste collection and disposal. Most of the waste here in the country is usually solid waste. The majority of solid waste here is comprised of organic waste then followed by plastics mostly generated by households in the country. The amount of waste generated in the country usually varies in different geographical zones. Areas such as the coastal region generate the highest amount of waste in the country.
Work and Study Abroad
The national government of Ghana has been putting in resources to turn the country into one of the best economic hubs in the region. Several investors are noticing this potential and are working together with the national government to make this venture a success. Several international organizations are also coming to turn Ghana into one of the busiest economic hubs in West Africa. The UN has set up several offices in the country which include:
- Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
- International Fund For Agricultural Development (IFAD)
- International Labour Organization (ILO)
- International Maritime Organization (IMO)
- Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS)
- United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
- United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
- United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)
- United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
- United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)
Exchange Student
The University of Ghana. It is located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. It is the first ever university that was built in Ghana. This public university was commissioned in 1948. It was initially referred to as the University College of the Gold Coast. It was later renamed in 1961 after Ghana gained its independence.
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). It is located in Kumasi in the Ashanti region, Ghana. Its inception is believed to have been inspired by King Asantehene Agyeman Prempeh I.
The University of Cape Coast. This university is located in Cape Coast in Ghana. It was commissioned in 1962. Graduate teachers were the main target for this university's inception as they were to be enrolled in for a second training period. Several departments within the university were invested in heavily such as in the health department.
Other universities found in the country include:
- University of Education, Winneba
- University for Development Studies
- University of Mines and Technology
- University of Energy And Natural Resources
Au Pair
Many of the locals here on Ghana are unemployed and a nanny job is one of the informal employment opportunities many have turned to. You can enroll in the authentic websites that offer AU Pair services. Some locals have even gone ahead to look for nanny jobs in Middle Eastern and European countries.
Volunteering
Volunteer with Children in Ghana with Projects Abroad. This NGO is located in Accra, the capital city of Ghana. This NGO has worked in the Ghana for a long time and has aimed to improve the lives of the less fortunate children in the country. This program has embraced Couch surfing which is very amazing as you will get to learn about the local culture first hand. This NGO offers many other services including fund raising services. They will even go a step ahead and help you create a fund raising website which you can use to raise funds for this course. Be prepared to spend a minimum of one week when working with this NGO.
Agriculture Volunteer Work with IVHQ. This non-profit organization is located in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. This program gives you the opportunity to work directly with the land in the country. You will be able to learn and get experience in agriculture through this program as you will be able to engage in activities such as fertilizing the soil, planting, and even feeding animals such as pigs. This project also works in attaining food security in childcare facilities. This program usually runs for a period of one week to 24 weeks.
Football Coaching Volunteering in Ghana by Volunteering Solutions. This volunteering organization is located in the Tamale region in Northern Ghana. The sport that is beloved by all Ghanaians is soccer thus many locals usually participate in this sport. This organization welcomes volunteers to work with them in this venture. You will get a chance to coach various players. You should not worry about where you will stay as this organization already sorts you out. Many activities are also offered by this organization apart from football. You can visit various orphanages in the country where you can help various children and get to interact with them and give them counseling. The programs here usually run for a period of 1 to 8 weeks.
Creative Arts Projects with Love Volunteers. This non-profit organization is located in Accra and Kumasi cities in Ghana. The art venture is usually amazing as it gives people the freedom to express themselves. Art can also be used to create awareness on the need for helping the less fortunate children in society and this organization does this here in Ghana. When you volunteer with this group, you will get a chance to teach art to several children here in the country. You will be required to spend at least one week with this organization.
Conservation Volunteering with ELI Abroad. Ghana is known to have diverse ecosystems comprised of various flora and fauna. Some of these species are endangered. Tourism here in Ghana is one of the major income generators in the country. ELI Abroad offers other services including reforestation and sustainable use of conservation area. Be prepared to partner with thus organization between 2 to 12 weeks.
Womens Economic Empowerment & Vocational Training with Global Vision International. It is located in Accra and Kokrobite in Ghana. The volunteers here usually offer vocational training to women and also offer health and wellness classes. They aim to improve the living standards o lo, AL women here by enabling them to acquire self-sufficient skills to be economically stable. Be prepared to spend a minimum of one week with this organization.