Are you ready to be amazed with trip to the Republic of Ghana? It’s this seriously awesome country on the western side of Africa! Picture this: sunny beaches where you can chill, super green forests that are beyond beautiful, and markets that are just buzzing with people and stuff. Let’s check out some interesting Ghana facts for kids that are gonna make your jaw drop – you’ll be like, “Whoa!”
The Golden Land and the Big Blue
Did you know that Ghana used to be called the Gold Coast? That’s because it has lots of gold! It’s also right next to the Atlantic Ocean, where you can see huge waves and feel the salty air. Imagine building sandcastles on the beach and watching the sun set over the Gulf of Guinea.
A Land of Many Neighbors and Big Water
Ghana is snuggled between Ivory Coast (or Côte d’Ivoire) to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, and Togo to the east. It’s like having lots of friends! And guess what? Ghana is home to Lake Volta, the world’s largest artificial lake! It’s so big, you can barely see the other side. This is because of the Akosombo Dam, which generates energy for many people. It is inside the volta basin, and is created by the black volta and white volta rivers. And it is an important fact to know. And while we are talking about water, Ghana has a lack of natural lakes, only one, lake Bosumtwi.
A History of Empires and Freedom
Long, long ago, there was a powerful ancient kingdom of Ghana, and then the mighty Ashanti Empire. These kingdoms were known for their strong warrior king and beautiful gold crafts. Then, the United Kingdom took control, called British rule. But a brave leader named Kwame Nkrumah helped Ghana become the first sub-Saharan country to gain independence! He is a very important person in Ghana’s history. He dreamed of a free and united Africa. We can see this symbolized by the black star in the flag of ghana.
NAture EVERYWHERE!
Ghana is a part of the vast sub-Saharan Africa and the West coast of Africa. If you love animals and plants, you’ll love Ghana’s national parks and nature reserves!
Mole National Park: Get ready to see big African elephants! But be careful of the puff adder, one of the poisonous snakes that live there. You’ll find this park in the northern region, where the land turns into wide, grassy plains. Nature lovers, hang on tight. This experience is just what you need.
Kakum National Park: Imagine walking high in the trees on a rope bridge. You might see colorful butterfly species and hear the sounds of numerous birds. Honestly, who wants to miss out on that experience?
Culture and Colors
Ghana is home to many different ethnic groups, especially the Akan people. They speak many national languages, stemming from the soninke language. Everyone has their own special traditions and stories.
Ghanaian Music: People in Ghana love to dance and sing! You’ll hear lively music everywhere. You can get access to annual concerts, have an experience of a live band or even hear pulsating music at a traditional festival or marriage ceremony.
Kente Cloth: Imagine wearing a colorful cloth with amazing patterns. This is kente cloth, the traditional cloth of the Ghanaian people. It’s like wearing art! It has beautiful details and colors that signify something.
Kejetia Market: If you like busy places, you’ll love Kejetia Market, one of the biggest markets in western Africa. It’s full of sights, smells, and sounds.
Ghanaian Foods: Get ready to taste yummy food like fufu and jollof rice! Ghana is famous for its delicious Ghanaian foods and use of cocoa beans.
Facts and Fun
Most people in Ghana live in southern Ghana, and the largest city is Accra. Not only is it the largest, it’s the capital city.
The official language of Ghana is English, but many other local languages are also spoken. There’s twi, fante, ga, ewe and so many more.
The Ghana cedi and pesewas is the money they use. And in the past they used cowry shells.
Ghana is very close to the sahara desert, and there is a large difference in climate between the northern part of the country and the south west corner.
Kofi Annan was a famous person from Ghana who worked for peace around the world.
Many people practice traditional religions as well as Christianity and Islam.
Ghana has seen much growth in its main exports, and natural resources, helping shape the world today, and will shape the near future.
Ghana is a wonderful tourist attraction, because of all it has to offer.
You can’t tell me these Ghana facts didn’t leave you amazed and wanting a feel of the Ghanaian experience. To truly unlock the secrets of Ghana, consider exploring with a knowledgeable local guide. This is where ‘Expat Life Ghana Tours‘ comes in. We specialize in curating immersive experiences that go beyond the typical tourist trail. Imagine having a local expert by your side as you navigate the bustling Makola Market, or learning the intricate history of the slave castles from someone who understands the deeper cultural context. We can handle all the logistics, allowing you to focus on absorbing the beauty and spirit of Ghana.
So, get ready to explore Ghana, a land of sunshine, smiles, and amazing adventures!