Welcome to Ghana 😊

Quick Facts About Ghana

Money and Finances

The official currency of Ghana is the Ghana cedi (GHS), which is divided into 100 pesewas. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 pesewas, as well as 1 Ghana cedi. Notes come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 Ghana cedis.

ATM Network

ATMs can be found in major cities, but may not be as readily available in rural areas. Visitors are advised to carry cash when traveling outside of urban areas.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are accepted in some establishments in larger cities, but cash is still the most commonly used method of payment. Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than AMEX.

Internet and Phones

In Ghana, the average internet speed for uploads and downloads is 9.46 Mbps and 20.74 Mbps respectively. There is no government interference in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The major telco companies in Ghana are MTN, AirtelTigo, and Vodafone. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around GHC 20-30 per month. There are no sim compatibility issues.

Dialling to Ghana

To call Ghana from another country, dial +233 followed by the area code and phone number. The area codes used in Ghana are 030 for Accra and the surrounding regions, 031 for Central and Western regions, 032 for Ashanti and Brong-Ahafo regions, and 033 for the Northern, Upper East, and Upper West regions.

Transport Around Ghana

Air Travel

Ghana has two main airports, Kotoka International Airport in Accra and Kumasi Airport in Kumasi. Kotoka International Airport is the main airport and serves as the hub for international flights.

Train Travel

Ghana has limited inter-city train services. The main service is run by Ghana Railways Corporation and operates between Accra and Tema, with a journey time of about 1 hour and ticket prices ranging from GHS 5-10 (approx. USD 0.85-1.70).

Metro / Local Trains

Ghana currently does not have a metro system.

Buses

Buses are the main mode of transportation in Ghana, with many private operators running services. Popular companies include STC, VIP and OA. Example ticket prices and journey times include a 6-hour journey from Accra to Kumasi for GHS 35 (approx. USD 6), and a 12-hour journey from Accra to Tamale for GHS 60 (approx. USD 10).

Rideshare

There are several rideshare companies operating in Ghana, including Uber, Bolt and Yango. Average travel prices vary depending on the distance traveled, with short trips starting at GHS 8 (approx. USD 1.40) and longer trips costing up to GHS 70 (approx. USD 12).

Driving by Car

Driving in Ghana can be challenging due to poor road conditions and heavy traffic in urban areas. The speed limit in towns and cities is 50 km/h (approx. 31 mph), and 100 km/h (approx. 62 mph) on highways. Ghana uses right-hand drive vehicles.

Local Customs

In Ghana, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to tip around 10% of the total bill in restaurants, bars and hotels. When greeting someone, a handshake is the most common form of greeting. However, among the Akan ethnic group, it is customary to shake hands with the right hand, then twist both hands together to show respect. When speaking to strangers, it is important to be polite and respectful. Men often address each other as 'brother' or 'father', while women address each other as 'sister' or 'mother'. It is also common to use the person's first name with an added title such as 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.' when addressing someone.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Ghana has a National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) which provides health insurance coverage to its citizens. The NHIS is funded by a combination of premiums, taxes, and donor support. The cost of seeing a doctor in Ghana is generally affordable, with consultation fees ranging from GHC 30-50 (approximately USD 5 - 9). However, medical facilities may have limited resources and equipment in some areas outside of major cities.

COVID Situation

Ghana has been praised for its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing early measures such as border closures, mandatory testing, and a ban on public gatherings. As of September 2021, Ghana has recorded a total of approximately 125,000 cases and 1,100 deaths.

Common Health Risks

Malaria is a common health risk in Ghana, particularly in rural areas. Travelers are advised to take prophylactics and use mosquito nets. Food and waterborne illnesses are also a risk, so it is advised to drink only bottled or sterilized water and avoid raw or undercooked food. Some parts of Ghana may have a high risk of yellow fever, so travelers may need to provide proof of yellow fever vaccination.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Ghana, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. Alcohol consumption is generally legal, but public intoxication is a criminal offense. The sale of alcohol is prohibited on Sundays, except in licensed hotels, restaurants, or private clubs. Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited and can result in fines and imprisonment.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use is illegal in Ghana and is strictly enforced. Penalties for drug trafficking and possession of drugs are severe and can result in long prison sentences and heavy fines. This includes soft drugs such as cannabis.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Pre-marital relationships are not illegal in Ghana, but traditional customs and societal norms place an emphasis on marriage and family values.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Same-sex relationships are illegal in Ghana and can result in imprisonment. Discrimination against LGBTQ individuals is common and openly expressed in public. Same-sex marriages are not recognized under Ghanaian law.

Firearms / Guns

Firearms are heavily regulated in Ghana and can only be owned with a license. Possessing an unlicensed firearm carries a heavy penalty and can result in imprisonment.