Ghana

The Republic of Ghana is located in West Africa, bordered by Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea to the south.

Well endowed with natural resources, Ghana has more than twice the per capita output of the poorer countries in West Africa. Known for its gold in colonial times, Ghana remains one of the world’s top gold producers. Other exports such as cocoa, oil, timber, electricity, diamond, bauxite, and manganese are major sources of foreign exchange.

An oilfield which is reported to contain up to 3 billion barrels (480,000,000 m3) of light oil was discovered in 2007. Oil exploration is ongoing, and the amount of oil continues to increase. There is expected to be a tremendous inflow of capital into the economy beginning from the first quarter of 2011 when the country starts producing oil to be sold through overseas licensed counter-part GAZPROM in commercial quantities. Also the refining and sale of oil resources discovered off the Ghana coast licensed to oil giant GAZPROM has begun being monitored by the Ghana National Petroleum Company. The oil is expected to account for 6% of the revenue for 2011.

:: Background of Ghana ::

Formed from the merger of the British colony of the Gold Coast and the Togoland trust territory, Ghana in 1957 became the first sub-Saharan country in colonial Africa to gain its independence. Ghana endured a long series of coups before Lt. Jerry RAWLINGS took power in 1981 and banned political parties. After approving a new constitution and restoring multiparty politics in 1992, RAWLINGS won presidential elections in 1992 and 1996, but was constitutionally prevented from running for a third term in 2000. John KUFUOR succeeded him and was reelected in 2004. John Atta MILLS took over as head of state in early 2009.

:: Background of Ghana ::

Formed from the merger of the British colony of the Gold Coast and the Togoland trust territory, Ghana in 1957 became the first sub-Saharan country in colonial Africa to gain its independence. Ghana endured a long series of coups before Lt. Jerry RAWLINGS took power in 1981 and banned political parties. After approving a new constitution and restoring multiparty politics in 1992, RAWLINGS won presidential elections in 1992 and 1996, but was constitutionally prevented from running for a third term in 2000. John KUFUOR succeeded him and was reelected in 2004. John Atta MILLS took over as head of state in early 2009.

:: Geography of Ghana ::

Location: Western Africa, bordering the Gulf of Guinea, between Cote d’Ivoire and Togo

Geographic coordinates: 8 00 N, 2 00 W

Area:
total: 238,533 sq km
land: 227,533 sq km
water: 11,000 sq km

Area – comparative: slightly smaller than Oregon
Land boundaries: 2,094 km
Coastline: 539 km

Maritime claims:
territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm

Climate: tropical; warm and comparatively dry along southeast coast; hot and humid in southwest; hot and dry in north
Terrain: mostly low plains with dissected plateau in south-central area

Elevation extremes:
lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m
highest point: Mount Afadjato 885 m

Natural resources: gold, timber, industrial diamonds, bauxite, manganese, fish, rubber, hydropower, petroleum, silver, salt, limestone

Land use:
arable land: 17.54%
permanent crops: 9.22%
other: 73.24% (2005)
Irrigated land: 310 sq km (2003)
Total renewable water resources: 53.2 cu km (2001)
Freshwater withdrawal (domestic/industrial/agricultural):
tota:l 0.98 cu km/yr (24%/10%/66%)
per capita: 44 cu m/yr (2000)
Natural hazards: dry, dusty, northeastern harmattan winds occur from January to March; droughts

Environment – current issues: recurrent drought in north severely affects agricultural activities; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; poaching and habitat destruction threatens wildlife populations; water pollution; inadequate supplies of potable water

Environment – international agreements: party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified: Marine Life Conservation
Geography – note: Lake Volta is the world’s largest artificial lake

:: People of Ghana ::

Population: 24,339,838
note: estimates for this country explicitly take into account the effects of excess mortality due to AIDS; this can result in lower life expectancy, higher infant mortality, higher death rates, lower population growth rates, and changes in the distribution of population by age and sex than would otherwise be expected (July 2010 est.)

Age structure:
0-14 years: 37.2% (male 4,494,633/female 4,394,074)
15-64 years: 59.2% (male 7,065,273/female 7,086,023)
65 years and over: 3.5% (male 389,886/female 457,923) (2010 est.)

Median age:
total: 21.1 years
male: 20.8 years
female: 21.3 years (2010 est.)

Population growth rate: 1.855% (2010 est.)
Birth rate: 28.09 births/1,000 population (2010 est.)
Death rate: 8.93 deaths/1,000 population (July 2010 est.)
Net migration rate: -0.61 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2010 est.)
Urbanization:
urban population: 50% of total population (2008)
rate of urbanization: 3.5% annual rate of change (2005-10 est.)

Sex ratio:
at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female
under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.84 male(s)/female
total population: 1 male(s)/female (2010 est.)

Infant mortality rate:
total: 49.89 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 53.38 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 46.29 deaths/1,000 live births (2010 est.)

Life expectancy at birth:
total population: 60.55 years
male: 59.36 years
female: 61.78 years (2010 est.)

Total fertility rate: 3.57 children born/woman (2010 est.)
HIV/AIDS – adult prevalence rate: 1.9% (2007 est.)
HIV/AIDS – people living with HIV/AIDS: 260,000 (2007 est.)
HIV/AIDS – deaths: 21,000 (2007 est.)

Nationality: noun: Ghanaian(s) adjective: Ghanaian
Ethnic groups: Akan 45.3%, Mole-Dagbon 15.2%, Ewe 11.7%, Ga-Dangme 7.3%, Guan 4%, Gurma 3.6%, Grusi 2.6%, Mande-Busanga 1%, other tribes 1.4%, other 7.8% (2000 census)
Religions: Christian 68.8% (Pentecostal/Charismatic 24.1%, Protestant 18.6%, Catholic 15.1%, other 11%), Muslim 15.9%, traditional 8.5%, other 0.7%, none 6.1% (2000 census)

Languages: Asante 14.8%, Ewe 12.7%, Fante 9.9%, Boron (Brong) 4.6%, Dagomba 4.3%, Dangme 4.3%, Dagarte (Dagaba) 3.7%, Akyem 3.4%, Ga 3.4%, Akuapem 2.9%, other 36.1% (includes English (official)) (2000 census)
Literacy:
definition: age 15 and over can read and write
total population: 57.9%
male: 66.4%
female: 49.8% (2005 est.)

School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education):
total: 10 years
male: 10 years
female: 9 years (2008)
Education expenditures: 5.4% of GDP (2008)

Geography of Ghana: Important Geographical Information about Ghana

Ghana is a country located on the Gulf of Guinea, only a few degrees north of the Equator, therefore giving it a warm climate. The country spans an area of 238,500 km2 (92,085 sq mi). It is surrounded by Togo to the east, Côte d’Ivoire to the west, Burkina Faso to the north and the Gulf of Guinea (Atlantic Ocean) to the south.

Ghana lies between latitudes 4° and 12°N, and longitudes 4°W and 2°E. The Prime Meridian passes through the country, specifically through the industrial city of Tema. Ghana is geographically closer to the “center” of the world than any other country even though the notional centre, (0°, 0°) is located in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 614 km (382 mi) south of Accra, Ghana, in the Gulf of Guinea.

The country encompasses flat plains, low hills and a few rivers. Ghana can be divided into five different geographical regions. The coastline is mostly a low, sandy shore backed by plains and scrub and intersected by several rivers and streams while the northern part of the country features high plains. Southwest and south central Ghana is made up of a forested plateau region consisting of the Ashanti uplands and the Kwahu Plateau; the hilly Akuapim-Togo ranges are found along the country’s eastern border.

The Volta Basin also takes up most of central Ghana. Ghana’s highest point is Mount Afadjato which is 885 m (2,904 ft) and is found in the Akwapim-Togo Ranges. The climate is tropical. The eastern coastal belt is warm and comparatively dry, the southwest corner is hot and humid, and the north is hot and dry. Lake Volta, the world’s largest artificial lake, extends through large portions of eastern Ghana and is the main source of many tributary rivers such as the Oti and Afram rivers.

There are two main seasons in Ghana: the wet and the dry seasons. Northern Ghana experiences its rainy season from March to November while the south, including the capital Accra, experiences the season from April to mid-November. Southern Ghana contains evergreen and semideciduous forests consisting of trees such as mahogany, odum and ebony. It also contains much of Ghana’s oil palms and mangroves. Shea trees, baobabs and acacias are usually found in the Volta region and the northern part of the country.

Professional Translation Organizations & Associations in Ghana

Below is a list of the major translation organizations and associations (also Universities) of Ghana.

University of Ghana

Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

University of Cape Coast

University of Education

University for Development Studies

University of Mines and Technology

Information about the Ghanaian Flag: Colors and Meaning of the Flag of Ghana

The national flag of Ghana contains three equal horizontal bands of red (top), yellow, and green, with a large black five-pointed star centered in the yellow band. It uses the popular Pan-African colors of Ethiopia; similar to the flag of Bolivia, which has a coat of arms centered in the yellow band.

Red symbolizes the bloodshed for independence, yellow represents the country’s mineral wealth, while green stands for its forests and natural wealth; the black star is said to be the lodestar of African freedom.

Extensive List of Languages of Ghana: Spoken and Extinct Languages

:: List of Languages ::

Abron [abr] 1,050,000 in Ghana. Population total all countries: 1,182,000. Southwest, northwest of Asante Twi [aka]. Also in Côte d’Ivoire. Alternate names: Bron, Brong, Doma, Gyaman. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Central, Akan

Adamorobe Sign Language [ads] 3,400 including hearing people (2003). East region, Adamorobe village. Classification: Deaf sign language

Adangbe [adq] 200 in Ghana (2006). Population total all countries: 2,200. Togo border area east of Ho. Agotime mostly in Volta region, Kpoeta, Apegame. Also in Togo. Alternate names: Adan, Adantonwi, Agotime, Dangbe. Dialects: Similar to Igo [ahl]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Left Bank, Kposo-Ahlo-Bowili

Adele [ade] 11,000 in Ghana (2003). East central border with Togo. Upper Adele in Togo; Lower Adele in Ghana. Alternate names: Bidire. Dialects: Upper Adele, Lower Adele. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Basila-Adele

Ahanta [aha] 142,000 (2003). Southwest coast. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Central, Bia, Southern

Akan [aka] 8,300,000 in Ghana (2004 SIL). Population includes 2,800,000 Asante Twi, 1,900,000 Fante, 555,000 Akuapem Twi (2004). Asante are south central, Ashanti Province; Akuapem are southeast, north of Accra; Fante are south central, between Winneba, Takoradi, and Obuasi.Dialects: Agona, Anomabo Fanti, Abura Fanti, Gomua; Ahafo, Akuapem (Akwapem Twi, Akuapim, Akwapi, Twi), Akyem (Akyem Bosome), Asante (Ashante Twi, Asanti, Achanti), Asen, Dankyira, Fante (Fanti, Mfantse), Kwawu (Kwahu). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Central, Akan

Akposo [kpo] 7,500 in Ghana (2003). South. Alternate names: Akposso, Ikposo, Kposo. Dialects: Amou Oblou, Ikponu, Iwi (Uwi), Litime (Badou), Logbo, Uma. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Left Bank, Kposo-Ahlo-Bowili

Animere [anf] 700 (2003). East central, Kecheibi and Kunda villages, remote. Alternate names: Anyimere, Kunda. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Left Bank, Kebu-Animere

Anufo [cko] 66,000 in Ghana (2003). Population total all countries: 137,600. Northeast, Wawjayga area. Also in Benin, Togo. Alternate names: Chakosi, Chokosi, Kyokosi, Tchokossi, Tiokossi. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Central, Bia, Northern

Anyin [any] 250,000 in Ghana (2003). Between Abron north and Nzema south, Côte d’Ivoire west, Twi east. Aowin dialect in Ghana. Alternate names: Agni, Anyi. Dialects: Aowin (Brissa, Brosa). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Central, Bia, Northern

Avatime [avn] 24,000 (2003). Southeast, center at Amedzofe (Amajofe). Alternate names: Afatime, Si-ya, Sia, Sideme. Dialects: Similar to Nyangbo [nyb], Tafi [tcd]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Left Bank, Avatime-Nyangbo

Awutu [afu] 180,000 (2003). Coast, west of Accra. Dialects: Awutu, Efutu, Senya. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Guang, South Guang

Bimoba [bim] 120,000 (2004 SIL). Ethnic population: 200,000. Northeast, Gambaga District, south of Kusaasi, north of Konkomba. Alternate names: Moar, Moor. Dialects: Related to Moba [mfq] of Togo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Gurma, Moba

Birifor, Southern [biv] 125,000 in Ghana (2003), increasing. Population total all countries: 129,310. Northwest corner. Also in Côte d’Ivoire. Alternate names: Birifo, Ghana Birifor. Dialects: A separate language from Wali [wlx], Southern Dagaari [dga], Malba-Birifor [bfo] of Burkina Faso. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Western, Northwest, Dagaari-Birifor, Birifor

Bissa [bib] 166,000 in Ghana (2003). Northeast. Alternate names: Bisa. Dialects: Lebir (Western Bisa), Baraka (Eastern Bisa). Classification: Niger-Congo, Mande, Eastern, Eastern, Bissa

Buli [bwu] 150,000 (2003 GILLBT), increasing. Sandema District. Alternate names: Bulisa, Guresha, Kanjaga. Dialects: Most similar to Konni [kma]. Lexical similarity: 77% with Mampruli [maw]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Buli-Koma

Chakali [cli] 6,000 (2003 GILLBT). East of Wa; Ducie village largest. Dialects: Lexical similarity: is 62% with Tampulma [tpm], 68% with Vagla [vag]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Southern, Grusi, Western

Chala [cll] 3,000 (2003 GILLBT). Volta region, Nkwanta, Odomi, Ago villages; Northern region, Jadigbe village near Seipe, south of Ekumdipe is 35% Chala. Alternate names: Cala, Tshala. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Southern, Grusi, Eastern

Cherepon [cpn] 111,000 (2003). A pocket between Ga [gaa] and Twi areas, north of Larteh. Alternate names: Chiripon, Chiripong, Kyerepong, Okere. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Guang, South Guang

Chumburung [ncu] 69,000 (2004 SIL), increasing. 2,700 Yeji. A triangular area with Volta Lake south, Daka River northwest. Yeji is south of the lake. Alternate names: Kyongborong, Nchimburu, Nchummuru. Dialects: Northern Chumburung (Banda), Southern Chumburung (Lonto, Gurubi, Chinderi, Bejamse, Borae), Yeji (Yedji). Somewhat intelligible with Krache [kye]. Lexical similarity: 77% with the Yeji dialect, 79% with Kplang [kph], 78% with Krache, 69% with Dwang [nnu], 67% with Nawuri [naw] and Gikyode [acd], 60% with Gonja [gjn]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Guang, North Guang

Dagaare, Southern [dga] 700,000 (2003), increasing. 1,000,000 including Northern Dagara in Burkina Faso (2003). Northwest corner, west Upper West region. Alternate names: Dagaare, Dagara, Dagari, Dagati, Degati, Dogaari, Southern Dagari. Dialects: Southern Dagaare and Southern Birifor [biv] are partially intelligible. Distinct from Northern Dagara [dgi] in Burkina Faso. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Western, Northwest, Dagaari-Birifor, Dagaari

Dagbani [dag] 800,000 (2004 SIL), increasing. Northeast Tamale area, as far as Yendi. Alternate names:Dagbamba, Dagbane, Dagomba. Dialects: Nanuni (Nanumba). Lexical similarity: 95% with Mampruli [maw], 90% with Farefare [gur], 89% with Kusaal [kus]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Western, Southeast

Dangme [ada] 800,000 (2004 SIL). Southeast, coast east of Accra and inland. Alternate names:Adangme. Dialects: Ada, Ningo, Osu, Shai, Gbugbla, Krobo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Ga-Dangme

Deg [mzw] 26,400 in Ghana (2003). Population total all countries: 27,500. West central, west of Volta Lake. Also in Côte d’Ivoire. Alternate names: Aculo, Buru, Degha, Janela, Mmfo, Mo. Dialects:Longoro, Mangum, Boe. Lexical similarity: 78% with Vagla [vag]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Southern, Grusi, Western

Delo [ntr] 10,900 in Ghana (2003), increasing. Population total all countries: 16,300. East central border with Togo. The paramount chief is at Brewaniase, 35 km south of Nkwanta. Also in Togo.Alternate names: Ntribou, Ntribu, Ntrubo. Dialects: Reclassified from Kwa to Gur family. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Southern, Grusi, Eastern

Dompo [doy] 65 (Blench 1999), decreasing. Ethnic population: 965 (2000 WCD). Brong-Ahafo region, Banda quarter called Dompofie. Alternate names: Dumpo, Ndmpo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Guang, North Guang

Dwang [nnu] 8,200 (2003 GILLBT). 1,600 Bekye, 3,300 Kenyen, 3,300 Wiase. South of Volta Lake and the Chumburung, east of Atebubu. Alternate names: Dwan, Nchumunu. Dialects: Bekye, Kenyen, Wiase. Most similar to Kplang [kph]. 75% comprehension of Chumburung [ncu]. Krache [kye] is understood well because of contact. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Guang, North Guang

English [eng] Classification: Indo-European, Germanic, West, English

Éwé [ewe] 2,250,000 in Ghana (2003), increasing. Population total all countries: 3,112,000. Southeast corner. Also in Togo. Alternate names: Ebwe, Efe, Eibe, Eue, Eve, Gbe, Krepe, Krepi, Popo, Vhe. Dialects: Anglo (Anlo), Awuna, Hudu, Kotafoa. Westernmost language of the Gbe language subgroup. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Left Bank, Gbe

Farefare [gur] 820,000 in Ghana (2003), increasing. Up to 656,000 in Upper East region, and at least 164,000 in various towns and cities in other regions (2003). Population total all countries: 845,100. Northeast, Upper East region, Bolgatanga area, Frafra District, as far west as Navrongo. Also in Burkina Faso. Alternate names: Frafra, Gurenne, Gurune, Nankani, Ninkare. Dialects:Gurune (Gudenne, Gurenne, Gudeni, Zuadeni), Nankani (Naani, Nankanse), Booni, Talni (Talensi, Talene), Nabt (Nabit, Nabde, Nabte, Nabdam, Nabdug, Nabrug, Nabnam, Namnam). 5 major dialects and many minor ones. Dialects are divided according to geography and ethnic sub-boundaries. Some named after towns or localities. Consider Southern Dagaare [dga] in particular a sister language. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Western, Northwest

Fulfulde, Maasina [ffm] 7,300 in Ghana (1991). North, in small groups. Alternate names: Fulbe, Maacina, Peul. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Atlantic, Northern, Senegambian, Fulani-Wolof, Fula, West Central

Ga [gaa] 600,000 (2004 SIL). Southeast, Accra coast area. Alternate names: Accra, Acra, Amina, Gain. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Ga-Dangme

Ghanaian Sign Language [gse] Dialects: Related to American [ase] and Nigerian [nsi] sign languages. Brought in 1957 by missionary Andrew Foster. Differs from American Sign Language in lexicon. New and local signs, and some modified from ASL. Classification: Deaf sign language

Gikyode [acd] 10,400 (2003), increasing. East central, on Togo border. 9 remote villages. Alternate names:Chode, Kyode. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 75% with Ginyanga [ayg] of Togo. Classification:Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Guang, North Guang

Gonja [gjn] 230,000 (2004 SIL), increasing. Northern region, south; west central, upper branches of Volta Lake area; Black Volta River to White Volta area, both sides. Dialects: Gonja, Choruba (Choroba). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Guang, North Guang

Gua [gwx] 60,200 (2003). A pocket in Éwé [ewe] area. Alternate names: Anum-Boso, Gwa. Dialects:Anu (Anum), Boso. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Guang, South Guang

Hanga [hag] 6,800 (2003 GILLBT), increasing. 4,100 in the traditional area, 2,700 elsewhere. North central, southeast of Mole game reserve, Damongo District. Murugu is biggest village. Alternate names: Anga. Dialects: Northern Hanga, Southern Hanga. Kamara [jmr] is a separate language. Subdialects of Southern Hanga are Langantere, Murugu, Damongo; subdialects of Northern Hanga are Yazori and Bowena. Lexical similarity: 84% with Southern Dagaare [dga] and Farefare [gur]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Western, Southeast

Hausa [hau] Classification: Afro-Asiatic, Chadic, West, A, A.1

Jwira-Pepesa [jwi] 18,000 (2003 GILLBT). Southwest corner; Jwira north of Axim from Bamiankaw to Humjibere along Ankobra River (18 villages); Pepesa on Wasa land between Agona Junction and Tarkwa. Dompim is main town. A mountain range separates the 2 groups. Alternate names: Pepesa-Jwira. Dialects: Jwira, Pepesa. 60% intelligibility with Nzema [nzi]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Central, Bia, Southern

Kabiyé [kbp] North. Alternate names: Cabrai, Cabrais, Kabire, Kabure, Kabye. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Southern, Grusi, Eastern

Kamara [jmr] 3,000 (2003 GILLBT), increasing. Ethnic population: 5,000 in Ghana (2003 GILLBT). Middle Northern region, edge of Hanga [hag] area, on road west of Damongo, Larabanga village. Safaliba [saf] sources report another small village 30 km south of Bole. Dialects: Significantly different linguistically and culturally from Hanga [hag]. More similar to Dagbani [dag] than to Hanga (1997 G. Hunt). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Western, Southeast

Kantosi [xkt] 2,300 in Ghana (2003 GILLBT). 280 to 400 in Sandema District, probably about 280 in Kpaliwongo. North central, Sandema District, among Bulsa (Buli [bwu]); Navrongo, Bolgatonga, Nalerigu, and Kpaliwogo, near Wa. Also in Burkina Faso. Alternate names: Dagaare-Dioula, Kantonsi, Yare, Yarsi. Dialects: Similar to Kamara [jmr], Farefare [gur], Dagbani [dag]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Western, Southeast

Kasem [xsm] 130,000 in Ghana (2004 SIL), increasing. North central, Navrongo District. Alternate names:Kasena, Kassena, Kassene. Dialects: Nunuma, Lela, Kasem, Fere. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Southern, Grusi, Northern

Konkomba [xon] 500,000 in Ghana (2003), increasing. Population total all countries: 550,100. Northeast border area, Guerin, Yendi District; north central, many scattered groups. Also in Togo. Alternate names: Kom Komba, Kpankpam. Dialects: Lichabool-Nalong, Limonkpel, Linafiel, Likoonli (Likonl, Liquan), Ligbeln. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Gurma

Konni [kma] 3,800 (2003 GILLBT), increasing. Southeast of the Sisaala and west of the Mamprusi. Remote, isolated, no roads. 5 villages, Yikpabongo the main one, Nangurima another. Alternate names: Koma, Komung, Koni. Dialects: Related to Mampruli [maw], Hanga [hag], Buli [bwu]. Lexical similarity: 60% with Buli. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Buli-Koma

Kplang [kph] 1,600 (2003 GILLBT). South of Volta Lake, south of Yeji (Chumburung). Alternate names:Prang. Dialects: 73% intelligibility with Chumburung [ncu]. 96% comprehension of the Yeji dialect of Chumburung due to proximity. Lexical similarity: 92% with the Yeji, 79% with Chumburung. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Guang, North Guang

Krache [kye] 58,000 (2004 SIL), increasing. Central, near Nchimburu, Kete Krachi area. Alternate names:Krachi, Krakye. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Guang, North Guang

Kulango, Bondoukou [kzc] 27,000 in Ghana (2003 GILLBT). West central, west of Wenchi. Alternate names: Bonduku, Kolango, Koulango, Kulange, Kulango, Nkuraeng, Nkurange. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Kulango

Kulango, Bouna [nku] 15,500 in Ghana (1991). West central border area. Alternate names: Bouna Koulango, Buna Kulango, Nkuraeng. Dialects: Sekwa, Nabanj. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Kulango

Kusaal [kus] 420,000 in Ghana (2004 SIL), increasing. 350,000 Angole, 70,000 Toende. Population total all countries: 437,000. Northeast corner, Bawku District. Also in Burkina Faso. Alternate names:Kusale, Kusasi. Dialects: Angole (Eastern Kusaal), Toende (Western Kusaal). Further investigation of the Toende dialect in Burkina Faso is needed. Possible marginal intelligibility with Eastern (Angole) Kusaal. Many claim to be able to understand the related languages: Mòoré [mos], Dagbani [dag], Mampruli [maw], Farefare [gur]. Kusaal is a member of the Mòoré-Dagbani subgroup. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Western, Southeast, Kusaal

Lama [las] Several hundred or perhaps thousands in Ghana (1996). 100 km south of Bassar, to Yendi, as far as Tamale, and southeast of Tamale. Alternate names: Lamba, Losso. Dialects: Kadjala (Kadjalla). Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Southern, Grusi, Eastern

Larteh [lar] 74,000 (2003 GILLBT). A pocket in Ga [gaa] and Twi areas, south of Cherepon. Alternate names: Gua, Late, Lete. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Guang, South Guang

Lelemi [lef] 48,900 (2003), increasing. Southeast, Jasikan town. Alternate names: Buem, Lafana, Lefana. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Lelemi, Lelemi-Akpafu

Ligbi [lig] 15,000 in Ghana (2003 GILLBT). Population total all countries: 19,000. Numasa, northwest Brong-Ahafo; east of Sampa and northwest of Wenchi. Also in Côte d’Ivoire. Alternate names:Banda, Dzowo, Jogo, Ligwi, Namasa, Nigbi, Nigwi, Tsie, Tuba, Weela, Weila, Wiila. Dialects:Bungase, Gyogo, Hwela (Weila, Wiila, Weela, Vwela), Dwera (Manji-Kasa), Atumfuor (Atumfuor-Kasa), Ntoleh. Classification: Niger-Congo, Mande, Western, Central-Southwestern, Central, Manding-Jogo, Jogo-Jeri, Jogo

Logba [lgq] 7,500 (2003). Southeast. Alternate names: Ikpana. Dialects: A population sample averaged 87% comprehension of Éwé [ewe] mixed discourse types. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Logba

Mampruli [maw] 220,000 in Ghana (2004 SIL), increasing. Northeast Northern region, east and west of Gambaga. Also in Togo. Alternate names: Mamprule, Manpelle, Ngmamperli. Dialects: Eastern Mampruli, Western Mampruli. 50% intelligibility with Dagbani [dag]. Lexical similarity: 95% with Dagbani, 90% with Farefare [gur]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Western, Southeast

Nafaanra [nfr] 61,000 in Ghana (2003 GILLBT), increasing. West border, east of Bondoukou. Also in Côte d’Ivoire. Alternate names: Banda, Dzama, Gambo, Nafaara, Nafana, Pantera-Fantera. Dialects:Pantera, Fantera. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Senufo, Nafaanra

Nawdm [nmz] Accra, Ho, Kpandu, and Volta region. Alternate names: Naoudem, Naudm, Nawdam. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Yom-Nawdm

Nawuri [naw] 14,000 (2003 GILLBT), increasing. East central, Lake Volta, mostly Oti River west bank branch. Dialects: Most inherent intelligibility with Gikyode [acd]. Highest lexical similarity 72% with the Buipe dialect of Gonja [gjn]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Guang, North Guang

Nchumbulu [nlu] 1,800 (2003 SIL). West of Volta Lake near Kplang. 3 villages. Dialects: Similar to Chumburung [ncu], Dwang [nnu]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Guang, North Guang

Nkonya [nko] 28,000 (2004 SIL). Southeast, northwest of Éwé [ewe]. Some among Gua [gwx].Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Guang, North Guang

Ntcham [bud] 57,000 in Ghana (2004 SIL). Alternate names: Basar, Basare, Basari, Bassar, Bassari, Ncham, Tobote. Dialects: Bitaapul. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Gurma, Ntcham

Nyangbo [nyb] 6,400 (2003). Southeast. Alternate names: Tutrugbu. Dialects: People who have had no contact with Tafi [tcd] had 67% intelligibility of it on tests; people 30 to 50 years old had nearly perfect comprehension. There are reportedly only phonological differences. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Left Bank, Avatime-Nyangbo

Nzema [nzi] 262,000 in Ghana (2004 SIL). Population total all countries: 328,700. Southwest corner. Also in Côte d’Ivoire. Alternate names: Appolo, Nzima. Dialects: Evalue. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Central, Bia, Southern

Paasaal [sig] 36,000 (2003 GILLBT), increasing. Upper West region, south of Tumu, 105 km east of Wa. About 18 villages. Alternate names: Funsile, Pasaale, Pasaale Sisaala, Southern Sisaala. Dialects: Gilbagala, Pasaali. The Gilbagala more similar to Paasaal than to Tumulung Sisaala [sil]. The dialect in Funsi Kundogo is predominant among the Paasaal villages. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Southern, Grusi, Western

Safaliba [saf] 4,000 (2003), increasing. West Northern region, west and south of Bole, Mandari, Tanyire, Manfuli, and Gbenfu, villages; settlements in nearby towns of Bote, Sawla, Kalba. Alternate names: Safalaba, Safalba, Safali. Dialects: Lexical similarity: 79% with Southern Dagaari [dga]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Western, Northwest

Sehwi [sfw] 250,000 (2003). Southwest. Alternate names: Asahyue, Sefwi. Dialects: Similar to Anyin [any] of Côte d’Ivoire. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Central, Bia, Northern

Sekpele [lip] 23,400 (2003). Southeast, north of Hohoe. Alternate names: Bosele, Likpe, Mu. Dialects:Sekwa, Sekpele. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Lelemi, Likpe-Santrokofi

Selee [snw] 11,300 (2003 GILLBT). Southeast, Benua, Bume, Gbodome villages. Alternate names:Santrokofi, Sele, Sentrokofi. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Lelemi, Likpe-Santrokofi

Sisaala, Tumulung [sil] 105,000 (2003 GILLBT). North central, Tumu District. Alternate names: Hissala, Isaalung, Issala, Sisai, Sisala Tumu. Dialects: Isala, Gil Bagale (Galebagla), Nsihaa, Potule. Classification:Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Southern, Grusi, Western

Sisaala, Western [ssl] 30,000 (2003 GILLBT). North central, Lambusie area. Alternate names: Busillu Sisala, Hissala, Issala, Sisai. Dialects: Similar to Sissala [sld] of Burkina Faso. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Southern, Grusi, Western

Siwu [akp] 27,000 (2003). Southeast, north of Hohoé. Alternate names: Akpafu-Lolobi, Lolobi-Akpafu, Siwusi. Dialects: Akpafu, Lolobi. Lolobi and Akpafu dialects are inherently intelligible, but have been politically separate since the 1800s. A population sample averaged 66% comprehension of Éwé [ewe] mixed discourse types. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Lelemi, Lelemi-Akpafu

Tafi [tcd] 4,400 (2003). East central, near Togo border. Alternate names: Tegbo. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Left Bank, Avatime-Nyangbo

Tampulma [tpm] 16,000 (2003). North central, south of Sisaala, Damongo District. 25 villages. Alternate names: Tampele, Tamplima, Tampole, Tampolem, Tampolense, Tamprusi. Dialects: 2 inherently intelligible dialects. Lexical similarity: 62% with Chakali [cli]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Southern, Grusi, Western

Tem [kdh] 53,000 in Ghana. Accra mostly. Alternate names: Cotocoli, Kotokoli, Temba, Tim, Timu. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Southern, Grusi, Eastern

Tuwuli [bov] 11,400 (2003 GILLBT). Volta region, Volta Lake east to Amanfro on Hohoe-Jasikan road.Alternate names: Bawuli, Bowili, Bowiri, Liwuli, Siwuri, Tuwili. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Left Bank, Kposo-Ahlo-Bowili

Vagla [vag] 13,500 (2003 GILLBT), increasing. West central, Northern Province, Damongo District, near Sawla. Alternate names: Kira, Konosarola, Paxala, Sitigo, Vagala. Dialects: Bole, Buge. Lexical similarity: 68% with Chakali [cli]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Southern, Grusi, Western

Wali [wlx] 138,000 (2003). Northwest corner. Alternate names: Ala, Ouala, Waali, Wala. Dialects:Fufula, Yeri Waali, Cherii, ’Bulengee, ’Dolimi. Distinct from Southern Birifor [biv] and Southern Dagaari [dga]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, North, Gur, Central, Northern, Oti-Volta, Western, Northwest

Wasa [wss] 309,000 (2003). Southwest. Alternate names: Wasaw, Wassa. Dialects: Amenfi, Fianse. Some intelligibility with Abron [abr]. Classification: Niger-Congo, Atlantic-Congo, Volta-Congo, Kwa, Nyo, Potou-Tano, Tano, Central, Akan

:: Reference ::
Gordon, Raymond G., Jr. (ed.), 2005. Ethnologue: Languages of the World, Fifteenth edition. Dallas, Tex.: SIL International. Online version: http://www.ethnologue.com/

Famous Ghanaian People: Ghanaian Artists, Scientists, Leaders, Musicians, Politicians and Athletes

Ghana is a melting pot of cultures, ethnicities and religions with outstanding individuals who made a difference with their remarkable achievements. Below are brief stories of remarkable Ghanaian people with one thing in common: they are not easy to stereotype.

:: List of Famous People from Ghana ::

Kofi Annan
Ghanaian diplomat Kofi Annan served as the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations from 1 January 1997 to 31 December 2006. Annan and the United Nations were the co-recipients of the 2001 Nobel Peace Prize for his founding the Global AIDS and Health Fund to support developing countries in their struggle to care for their people.

Azumah Nelson
Former boxer and three time world champion, Azumah Nelson gained national hero status in Ghana. He is widely recognized by boxing fans and critics as the greatest fighter ever to come out of this coastal African nation. He was selected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame and also became a member of the World Boxing Hall of Fame.

Famous People from Ghana: Famous Ghanaian Footballers/Soccer Players

The following Ghanaian athletes dedicated themselves in promoting and inspiring people about football, one of the most well-loved sports in the world.

Abedi “Pelé” Ayew
Ghanaian football star Abedi Pelé is one of the great pioneers of African football in Europe. Being one of the first great African players to make an impact on European club football, Abedi Pelé played for teams in Switzerland, Germany, Italy and most famously France where he helped Marseille win the 1993 UEFA Champion’s League. Abedi Pelé is a member of FIFA’s Football Committee.

Stephen Appiah
Ghanaian footballer Stephen Appiah has played for several European clubs since 1997 and is currently with Cesena in the Italian Serie A. Appiah is also a member of the Ghana national team, which he has represented at the youth, Olympic, and senior levels. He captained Ghana at their World Cup debut in 2006 and is a member of their squad for the 2010 World Cup. He is also the captain of the national team.

Asamoah Gyan
Asamoah Gyan is currently one of the best known Ghanaian football players in Europe. He plays as a striker for Sunderland in the English Premier League.

Sulleyman Ali “Sulley” Muntari
Sulley Muntari currently plays as a central midfielder for Sunderland but is on loan from Italian club Internazionale.