Ghana: The “Warrior King”
Until its independence in 1957, Ghana was known as the Gold Coast. It was renamed Ghana, meaning “Warrior King,” to reflect the ancient Ghanaian empire that flourished in West Africa during the 10th century. The name also signifies Ghana’s immense strength, power and resilience.
What Are the Ghanaian People Like?
The incredible people of Ghana are warm, friendly, polite, open and hospitable. They’re peaceful, taking life at a relaxed pace. In Ghana, family is highly valued, with many people living in multi-generational homes. However, strangers and visitors are always welcomed with open arms.
Ghanaians are very sociable. They always greet one another and make an extra effort to greet their elders. Men always perform handshakes with their right hands.
In Ghanaian society, it’s customary to exchange pleasantries and ask about family before talking about other things.
What Do Ghanaian People Value?
Ghanaians emphasize values such as the importance of family, respect for the elderly and honor for traditional rulers.
The people of Ghana also place a high value on dignity and proper social conduct. Individual conduct is seen as having an impact on an entire family, social group and community. Every person is expected to be respectful, dignified and observant in nearly every aspect of life.
Community is also sacred. Ghanaians share everything, including food and other resources, no matter how much they have.
What Is Ghanaian Culture Like?
Like most African nations, Ghana has rich, traditional cultures that differ from one ethnic group to another. Ghana’s 35 million people (as of 2026) include several major ethnic groups, with Akan, Mole-Dagbon and Ewe being some of the largest.
Ghana: The Land of Festivals, Music & Traditional Dances
It’s customary for most Ghanaian communities to have annual celebrations. One example is Ghana Independence Day, which is celebrated every year on March 6. Each celebration features vibrant music and dance.
There are three main types of music in Ghana:
Ethnic or traditional music is usually played during festivals and funerals.
Highlife music blends traditional African music with Western jazz.
Choral music is performed in concert halls, churches, schools and colleges.
There are also different traditional dances performed throughout Ghana. For example, the Adowa dance, a traditional dance of the Akan people, is often performed at festivals and even funerals.
At Compassion centers throughout Ghana, it’s tradition for children to welcome visitors with elaborate drumming and dancing, an expression of appreciation and Ghanaian hospitality.
Food in Ghana
Traditional food in Ghana is flavorful and hearty. Staples include cassava, which is a root vegetable that resembles a potato, plantains and yams. Traditional dishes include fufu (or pounded cassava or plantains) as well as waakye (rice and beans). You’ll also find a variety of soups and stews.
Language in Ghana
Along with different ethnic groups and cultures, there are 80 different languages spoken throughout Ghana. However, the official language is English.
How would you say “Good morning” in Ghanaian culture? Here are some of the common greetings and responses in Ghana:
Maakya. Good morning.
Maaha. Good afternoon.
Maadwo. Good evening.
Wohu te sen? How are you?
Onyame na adom me hu ye? By the grace of God, I am fine.
Me daase. Thank you.
Kusee. Sorry.
Me paa wo kyeo (“ky” sounds like “ch” like in “chain”). Please.
Ghanaians take care when communicating with those around them. For example, when talking to an elder, Ghanaians do not gesture with their left hands. In fact, anything done with the left hand is considered rude.
The people of Ghana are also indirect communicators, prioritizing harmony. Bad news or disagreement is handled subtly. Many Ghanaians will also use proverbs or metaphors to communicate complex or sensitive ideas and thoughts.
Helping Children in Poverty in Ghana
While Ghana has many beautiful traditions, it’s also home to children experiencing the challenges of extreme poverty. In fact, Ghana is one of the countries in Sub-Saharan Africa where the highest rates of poverty exist among children.
Many little ones lack access to basic living essentials like safe water, nutritious food, education and medical care. But at Compassion, we’re working to change that. We equip local churches throughout Ghana to provide the practical care and love children need to leave poverty behind.
Not only do we offer nutritious meals, medical checkups and education to children in need, but we also introduce them to Jesus, giving them hope despite their circumstances. You can join us in this effort by becoming a child sponsor.
