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All About Ghana

Location and Language

Ghana is a country located in the Western Region of Africa. Its capital, Accra, is located right on the shore of the Gulf of Guinea, and is said to be home to nearly 10 percent of the nation's population. Roughly 25 million people call Ghana home, and there are more than 70 dialects spoken within the country, but about half the population speaks a dialect called Twi and the official language of Ghana is English, which is taught in the schools.  

History, Politics, and Religion. 

Previously called the Gold Coast, Ghana was settled by Africans but dominated by European powers until 1957, when they gained independence and renamed themselves Ghana. There was a series of military coups within the first 15 years of their freedom, and in 1991 a multi-party constitution was established. Ghana's first president was a man named Jerry Rawlings of the National Democratic Congress Party, and their current president, John Dramani Mahama, is also of that same party. Since establishing their independence and constitution, Ghana has become one of the most peaceful countries on the continent of Africa, and it is sometimes referred to as an "island of peace." The people of Ghana have to main religions: Christianity and Islam. About two thirds of the country holds Christian beliefs, while roughly 18% of the population follows Islamic religion and teachings. 

Economy

Ghana's economy thrives mainly off of agriculture and exportation. Around 40% of its citizens are farmers! Ghana is also one of the lead exporters of cocoa, gold, and lumber.  Ghana's economy is still developing and has progressed 8% over the past 5 years. However, it is still struggling and much of its population lives in poverty. There are high levels of corruption within their economy and their laws are not strictly enforced. 

National Issues

Ghana also has numerous other issues that need to be eliminated. 14% of the population has unimproved water access, and 86% of the rural population have unimproved access to sanitation facilities. In terms of hospitals, health, and physicians, the ratios are .085 physicians per 1000 people, and .9 hospitals beds per 1000 people. There is a very high risk in infectious diseases, and malaria is rampant among their populations. Below is a map showing the clinical burden of malaria in the country in 2007.

Despite their struggles, Ghana is one of the most loving and hospitable countries I have ever been to and they are doing what they can to eliminate and conquer the issues they face. 

http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/country_information/

https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/gh.html

Author: Sydney Peck
Last modified: 10/15/2014 7:18 AM (EDT)