Fun Facts About Ghana!

· The Portuguese were the first to Ghana, although Britain colonized it in the 18th century.

· Ghana means “warrior king.”

· There are 81 subethnic groups in Ghana.

· The urban areas are very overcrowded.

· Accra is the capital.

· Over 80% of citizens in Accra live in slums.

· It has one of the strongest Democratic parties in Africa because Ghana is peaceful, while its neighbors constantly fight.

· Chiefs ruled before the president did, so the chiefs are often sought out for advice and permission for things by the president. They are still highly respected in Ghana.

· Use of your left hand is considered to be disrespectful.

· The elderly are respected.

· Ghana decreased their poverty by 50% in only 10 years.

· Their motto is “freedom and justice.”

· It has the same land mass as the United Kingdom.

· It is only a few degrees above the equator.

· The Prime Meridian passes through Tema!

· It is closest  country to the “centre” of the Earth.

· Fufu is the most common dish.

· Their money is called the “Cedi” pronounced “CD”.

· There are 15 million citizens and 9 million aliens.

· 90% of the population speaks English, and 75% speaks Akan.

· It is predicted to be the first civilized country in sub-Sahara Africa by 2020.

· Kwame Nkruman was the first prime minister and president of Ghana.

· They have universal health care. There are around 200 hospitals, but they are difficult to get to. 32% of all patients are malaria victims.

· The country is 72% Christian, mainly Catholic.

· One of your names is given to you based on the day of the week you were born on!

· Vodun (Voo doo) runs alongside Christianity.

· There are coffin stores around Ghana that make coffins that suit your personality, such as a Coke bottle or a airplane!

· The slave castles became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

· Takoradi Port was constructed in 1928 in order to export raw materials.

· To get someone’s attention, say, “Ah-go.” In response, say, “Ah– may.” This means that the person has your attention.

· In 1471 Portugal came to Ghana and named it El Mina (the mine) because of all of the gold.

· There are ten regions in Ghana and each has its own hospital.

· Ghana’s neighboring countries export out of Takoradi and Tema.

· Ghana is very accepting to any religion. Whenever there is a religious holiday, it is also a national holiday.

· Where the fishermen come in, there are very simple structures constructed. These buildings are used to smoke the fish in, and are very simple in case high tide washes them away, and they will be rebuilt.