Ghana.
The Republic of Ghana (meaning “Warrior King”) is perhaps the most intriguing of West African countries. Bordering Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea to the south, and perched on a stunning stretch of Atlantic Ocean, Ghana has emerged as both a solid regional leader in West Africa.
Only a few degrees north of the equator, many claim that Ghana is geographically closer to the true “center” of the world than any other country. Ghana’s climate is a classical tropical range of a pleasantly warm and relatively dry eastern coastal zone to a sweltering southwest corner where loose clothing and a languid pace of life are required for survival.
More than 250 languages and dialects are spoken in Ghana, but English remains the country’s official language. Increasingly popular among the young hipsters of urban Accra, English is also generally used in government, business and education. Americans and Brits should, however, beware! The dialect of English spoken in Ghana is a rich, spicy stew made up of uniquely West African slang, enriched by a sophisticated Diaspora and the bold behemoth to the East commonly known as Nigeria.
Ghana is a blessed country in so many ways. Culturally, there is a richness and pride that dates back millennia to great kings, incredible wealth and unique stories that would rival Western postmodern authors. Today, Ghana is an evolving modern state with natural resources such as gold, timber, cocoa, diamonds, bauxite and manganese, as well as oil. Relatively good governance has made Ghana one of the more economically sound countries in all of Africa.
Beyond the political stability and economic growth, Ghana has a “vibe” and an allure that has long made it a favorite destination for scholars, tourists and amateur anthropologists from across the globe. Here, you will encounter a human energy that is virtually unmatched, supported by a uniquely African candor and self confidence and brought to life by a sense of humor that takes a back seat to no country or people.
The opportunities to serve here are tremendous, and the social needs remain great despite recent progress. But above everything, Ghana is a country that will stay in your heart forever. Serve here and we guarantee that you will make lifelong friends and that you will return many times.
For more information on Ghana, its geography, economy and recent political developments, please visit the following:
World Bank: Ghana