Ghana, is a west African country, bounded on the north by Burkina Faso, on the east by Togo, on the south by the Atlantic Ocean,and on the west by Côte d’Ivoire.
Formerly a British colony known as the Gold Coast, was led to independence by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah on the 6th of March, 1957. Ghana became the first black nation in sub-Saharan Africa to achieve independence from colonial rule.
The country is named after the ancient empire of Ghana, from which the ancestors of the inhabitants of the present country are thought to have migrated.
Population
The population of Ghana is divided into some 75 ethnic groups.
In 2010 the estimated population of Ghana was 23,837,000 (females-51%, males 49), giving the country an overall population density of 78 persons per sq km (201 per sq mi). The most densely populated parts of the country are the coastal areas, the Ashanti region, and the two principal cities, Accra and Kumasi.
About 70 percent of the total population lives in the southern half of the country. The most numerous peoples are the coastal Fanti, and the Ashanti, who live in central Ghana, both of whom belong to the Akan family. The Accra plains are inhabited by the Ga-Adangbe. Most of the inhabitants in the northern region belong to the Moshi-Dagomba or to the Gonja group.
Regional Divisions
Ghana is divided into ten administrative regions:
Region Regional Capital
Northern Tamale
Eastern Koforidua
Western Takoradi
Central Cape Coast
Upper East Bolgatanga
Upper West Wa
Volta Ho
Ashanti Kumasi
Brong-Ahafo Sunyani
Greater Accra. Accra (capital of Ghana)
Major Cities
Accra, the capital, has a population (1996 estimate, greater city) of 1.7 million. Kumasi is the capital of the Ashanti region. Sekondi has an artificial harbor and was the first modern port built in Ghana. Other major cities include Tema, Tamale, and Cape Coast. People living in urban areas account for 37 percent of the population.
The Capital
Accra, capital and largest city of Ghana, southeastern Ghana, on the Gulf of Guinea. Accra is an important commercial, manufacturing, and communications center. It is the site of an international airport and a
focus of the country’s railroad system, including a link to nearby Tema,which since 1962 has served as the city’s deepwater port. Industries include vehicle and appliance assembly, petroleum refining, and the manufacture of foodstuffs, textiles, metal and wood products, plastics, and pharmaceuticals.
A sprawling city, Accra presents a varied appearance, with buildings of modern, colonial, and traditional African architecture. Of note here are the 17th-century Christiansborg Castle, now the residence of the chief of state, and the National Museum (1957). Several research and technical institutes are located in Accra, and the University of Ghana (1948) is in the nearby town of Legon. The site of what is now Accra was occupied by villages of the Ga, the local people, when the Portuguese first visited here in the late 15th century. During the 17th century the Portuguese were forced to withdraw by the Dutch, who, along with the Danes and the English, founded rival trading posts, which became the settlements of Ussher Town, Christiansborg, and James Town, respectively.
In the 19th century Britain purchased Dutch and Danish rights in the area, and in 1876 Christiansborg was made the capital of the Gold Coast Colony. The three separate towns grew and gradually coalesced to form the city of Accra. Much of the modern city’s layout was planned in the 1920s, and since then growth has been rapid. Accra remained the capital city, when in 1957 the Gold Coast Colony became the independent state of Ghana. Population (1990 estimate) 953,500.
Language and Religion
Language
English is the official language of Ghana and is universally used in schools in addition to nine other local languages.The most widely spoken local languages are, Ga, Dagomba, Akan and Ewe.
Religion
Traditional religions accounts for two-fifths of the population. The Christian population also accounts for two-fifths of the total population and includes Roman Catholics, Baptist, Protestants, etc. The Muslim population (12 percent of the total) is located chiefly in the northern part of the country.
Education
Primary and secondary education is free and compulsory in Ghana between the ages of 6 and 14. In 1996, 76 percent of primary school-aged children were enrolled in school. Secondary schools enrolled just 31 percent of the appropriately aged children. Vocational and teacher-training institutions had 38,000 students. Higher education is provided by the University of Ghana (1948), in Legon (near Accra); the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (1951), in Kumasi; the University of Cape Coast (1962); and the University for Development Studies (1992), in Tamale. Total university enrollment was about 9,600 in the early 1990s.
In a proactive response to the recent disturbances at the Nkwanta Senior High School at Nkwanta, the Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, alongside the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Nkwanta South, Hon. Joseph Awal Antwi, has undertaken a working visit to the institution.
The visit was aimed at gathering first-hand insights regarding the riot that erupted last month, which stemmed from teachers seizing students’ mobile phones in an effort to arrest the declining academic performance of the students and also enforce discipline.
During their visit, both leaders expressed their profound disapproval of the incident and called on the Headmaster, Mr. Solomon Bagmang, management, and staff to unite efforts to ensure discipline and professionalism within the school.
Accompanying them were the Regional and Municipal Directors of Education, who contributed their perspectives on how best to navigate this challenging situation.
Recognizing the complexities of student unrest, members of the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) as well as the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) were also engaged in the discussions to present their findings from ongoing investigations into the root causes of the riot.
To facilitate open dialogue and ensure that all voices were heard, staff members convened separately from students, allowing for candid discussions aimed at crafting tailored solutions to prevent future occurrences.
This collective effort underscores a commitment not only to restoring order but also enhancing educational standards and student well-being within the region.
The student body, through their leadership, pledged to the delegation not to take the path of disobedience again.
The Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, reiterated that their pressing challenges regarding fencing of the school, dormitories, dining hall, and completing uncompleted projects to enhance teaching and learning are a priority, adding that such issues would soon receive the needed attention.
The MCE for the area, Hon. Joseph Awal Antwi, described the engagement as fruitful and rewarding, hoping that the meeting would open a new chapter in the academic, moral, and social lives of the entire school.
The pervasiveness of youth into gold mining as a means of life security faces asidous challenges and uncertainties , and is high time the nation begun looking at other sustainable alternatives as sources of livelihood for the constantly growing youth according to a philanthropist, Mr. Danyame .
The C E O of Danyame Group of Companies , Mr. Daniel Kofi Nyame aka Danyame , an entrepreneur and philanthropist has reiterated the need to empower the Ghanaian youth in various field of endeavour to be self reliant and innovative contributing their quota to their families and nation as a whole .
Danyame has emphasised the need to avert any attempts of negligence of developing and securing the well-being of the youth to ensure socio-economic and political development and sustainability in the country .
In the light of the seeming risks and the relevance of restoring hope in the potentials of youth , Mr . Daniel Nyame has gone to the assistance of the youth in the Denkyembour District of Easttern Region with a special initiative dubbed ‘ Danyame Youth Entrepreneurs Support Program ‘ . The program seeks to support youth entrepreneurs from 18years old to 39 years old and within the Akwatia and its environs with some seed capital to harness their potential through innovation culminating into a secured livelihood
Danyame has indicated that guidance and training would be offered to all applicants of the program by competent management enhancing efficacy and effectiveness .
He therefore calls on all well to do individuals and other philanthropists in their little ways to cushion the government in empowering the growing youth for a secured livelihood .
With the New Patriotic Party (NPP) at a crossroads following its electoral defeat, the party’s base is increasingly looking for direction, healing, and hope—a sentiment that Abetifi Member of Parliament, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has powerfully echoed in a recent statement calling for unity and disciplined leadership.
Addressing rank-and-file members, Dr. Acheampong acknowledged the mounting frustrations expressed across social media and internal party platforms, noting that disunity only deepens uncertainty among supporters. “We must move beyond the infighting and focus on rebuilding with clarity and purpose,” he said.
His call comes as grassroots members express growing concern over the party’s current state, with some worried that the lack of cohesion is alienating voters and eroding the NPP’s core identity. Dr. Acheampong’s emphasis on constructive dialogue and shared values resonated strongly among those seeking a sense of stability and direction.
“The people at the grassroots need to feel heard, guided, and valued again,” he said, urging leaders to serve as unifiers rather than factions. “We need courage and collaboration—not more division.”
As the NPP prepares for future elections, the call for a credible and united front has grown louder from the base. Dr. Acheampong’s intervention is being seen by many as a timely response to that call, offering hope that a new path forward—built on transparency, inclusion, and purpose—may yet emerge.
The Office of the Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has issued a firm rebuttal to reports suggesting that the Court of Appeal in Kumasi has declared Nii Adama Latse II as the rightful Ga Mantse, calling such assertions false, misleading, and legally unfounded.
In an official statement, the Ga Mantse’s Office emphasized that Ghanaian law does not empower the courts to determine chieftaincy disputes, which fall exclusively under the jurisdiction of the Judicial Committees of Traditional Councils and Houses of Chiefs. It stated clearly that no court, including the Court of Appeal, has the authority to declare anyone as Ga Mantse.
“It is legally inaccurate to claim that the Court of Appeal has declared Nii Adama Latse II as Ga Mantse,” the statement read. “No court can grant a relief which has not been sought and certainly cannot rule in a matter over which it has no jurisdiction.”
The clarification comes after public confusion stemming from the Court of Appeal’s affirmation of a High Court ruling that ordered the restoration of Nii Adama Latse II’s name into the National Register of Chiefs. However, the Ga Mantse’s Office explained that this ruling does not equate to conferring legitimacy or recognition as Ga Mantse, but rather upholds procedural orders related to registration.
The statement further clarified that a substantive chieftaincy dispute on the rightful occupant of the Ga Mantse Stool is still pending before the Judicial Committee of the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs in Dodowa, filed by Nii Adama Latse II against King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II and four other respondents.
“Until that decision is made, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II remains the legitimate and recognized Ga Mantse,” the statement reiterated.
Additionally, the document revealed that in 2020, Nii Adama Latse II filed for an injunction to restrain King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II from performing his duties, but this application was dismissed. The Judicial Committee directed that King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II should continue exercising the full functions of Ga Mantse pending a final determination.
The Ga Mantse’s Office also expressed concern over “misleading interpretations” and misinformation circulated following the recent Court of Appeal ruling, accusing unnamed individuals of attempting to distort legal proceedings for personal or political gain.
“We urge all well-meaning GaDangme citizens and residents of Ga to remain calm and not be swayed by misinformation,” the Office concluded.
This statement serves as a strong reaffirmation of King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II’s authority, while warning the public and media to avoid misrepresenting ongoing legal and traditional processes related to the Ga Stool.
This month’s Rap Life Radio on Apple Music, presented by Global Editorial Head of Hip-Hop and R&B, Ebro Darden, will feature the enigmatic Nigerian rap icon, Falz. Ebro and Africa Now Radio host, Nandi Madida, chat about his sixth studio album, The Feast, available to stream now on Apple Music.
“It’s an incredible honour to be the Rap Life Africa cover star,” Falz tells Apple Music. “Hip-hop has always been a powerful tool for storytelling and self expression, and I’m proud to represent a generation that’s pushing boundaries and using the culture to spark real conversations. This moment means a lot — not just for me, but for the movement.”
His Rap Life feature coincides with the release of his sixth studio album The Feast, a literal feast of sonic and visual intrigue, from spicy Afrobeat bangers to soulful, reflective moments of sensitivity.
Alongside Falz, Rap Life Radio will also spotlight South African rap icon Nasty C with his latest single “Soft” featuring Usimamane — a self-produced and sharply executed anthem that reflects his journey from the grind to grandeur. Ice Prince also features with his latest single “Slap The Ring”.
Spotlight On
Lead single “Anything Goes” feat. ODUMODUBLVCK emerges as the best thing about Falz’s latest offering. Speaking on the track, Falz tells Apple Music, “This song is a reflection of the madness we see and survive every day.”
“It’s a reality in cities like Lagos, where the lines between right and wrong are constantly blurred,” he continues. “We wanted to capture that raw energy, the frustration, the irony, but also the resilience.”
First To Know
Falz calls The Feast his most layered, grown, and expressive body of work to date. “This isn’t just music. It’s therapy. It’s art. It’s dinner with stories served hot,” Falz tells Apple Music.
South African hip-hop veteran K.O joins Nandi Madida via FaceTime on Apple Music 1 to talk about his latest single, “Supernova.” He also discusses his new album, ‘Phara City,’ the legacy of Teargas on the new generation of artists, and featuring collaborations on the album.
This Week’s Hottest New Tracks
Nandi Madida shares the hottest new African tracks of the moment. This week’s selection includes new tracks from Sam Deep, Stixx & Nvcho feat. Babalwa M, Mayorkun feat. Davido, CKay, Olamide, Seyi Vibez, Asake & Young Jonn feat. Daecolm, and MaWhoo, GL_Ceejay & Thukhutela feat. Jazzworx.
Tune in and listen to the full episode this Friday, June 13th at 9a Lagos/London / 10a Johannesburg/Paris / 1a LA / 4a NYC on Apple Music 1 at apple.co/_AfricaNow and YFM Accra every Sunday at 2pm, YFM Kumasi on Saturdays at 3pm and YFM Takoradi on Saturdays at 6pm
K.O tells Apple Music why now was the right time to release Phara City
I think the age where I’m at right now, I don’t only just want to be remembered as a dope rapper, and yes, I’ve dabbled in social commentary, but I now want to be even more intentional, especially in the climate that we subjected to as a country right now. I don’t want to shy away from the fact that there are socioeconomic issues that we are growing up under and whether we want to mask them and hide those things from the rest of the world or not, they are a reality.
K.O tells Apple Music the meaning of the word ‘Phara’.
‘Phara’ is basically a thug, I’m going to use the word loosely, why??, because Tupac came and he owned this thing called ‘Thug Life.’ That entire mentality he talked about is not only just the unflattering things, it describes a background that is both positive and negative. ‘Pharas’ are largely outcasts within society, people that are actually ostracised. But if you think about it, a Phara is not only that person in today’s South Africa. When you get to a (traffic) roadblock sometimes by way of survival, if you are under the influence or maybe you have outstanding tickets, sometimes you get to tap into the ‘Phara’ side in you and negotiate your way out so you can still get home without having to spend a night in a jail cell. Similarly, If I need to get my kid into Harvard, and I have a certain influence and power and there’s a way for me to twist someone’s arm in a positive way for my kid to get in and get the education that I feel he deserves, that’s me tapping into the ‘Phara’ side of me.
K.O tells Apple Music about the ambition of the album ‘Phara City’.
We are in a state where our country has almost kind of become dominated by a ‘Phara’ mentality, a dark mentality. I’m just throwing it out there in a very lighthearted manner where I’m taking that overly negative stench on the word itself because I feel by way of my own lifestyle and the country that I am an inhabit of, I feel for me to survive and be able to progress, I’ve had to become a Phara in some way. It’s me putting the mirror to the ordinary South African to say, “you know what? This is your world. Do you agree”? Let’s have a conversation. And these are conversations and topics that I am presenting to us (and myself) through music.
K.O tells Apple Music about his song ‘Supanova’ featuring Casper Nyovest
This song features a sample which is part of the Holy grail of South African musical legacy – Lebo Mathosa’s ‘I love Music’. Just the idea of sampling a song like that is near blasphemous, but we actually went out of our way to mirror the quality of the original. We had to present this to Lebo Mathosa’s estate and try and find all those composers and all the contributors who were part of the original, just to clear the sample. It was a needle in a haystack type of mission, but we eventually got it over the line! If you do touch something like this, you have to give it more than justice.
K.O tells Apple Music about featuring collaborations on the album
It wasn’t easy, it wasn’t a walk in a park – and it takes patience as well. When you know what you want and the people that compliment the vision, the best way that you feel, you’ll pursue as much as you possibly can and then see it through. People don’t know some of these things that are happening behind the scenes to get the music that they actually end up hearing! These things are in the making or in the works for months, but I think what I always try to do is to give the product a fighting chance. And I think by the collaborations that I go for, I always want to put the song first. I could easily do everything on the record, make the beat and do the verse myself, everything – But what if there’s a certain emotion that someone else could bring to the table to take this thing way beyond where my natural potential was going to take it? So that’s why you’re seeing that lineup of all those individuals that are on there.
K.O tells Apple Music about the legacy of Teargas on the new generation of artists
One of the things that I’ve always heard from, whether it’s Big Zulu or Black Diamond, and all of these guys, is they speak so highly of Teargas. When I go and listen to their music, I’m like, “Oh damn, actually I can hear it” – but they’re doing it in their own way – and to be on songs with them is also an honour to me. They don’t need me, but hey man, by way of them paying homage and also me saying, “big up, I see you. Let’s make some magic together”, It also feels like a full circle moment.
Production trio 4PLAY continue their strong run in Afroswing and House music with their latest single “Banku & Shito.” The track blends heavy beats, catchy melodies, and lively rhythms, making it a strong fit for any rave or party scene.
Based in the UK, 4PLAY have built a strong reputation through their long-standing work with NSG, producing many of the group’s biggest songs. Their ability to blend different sounds without losing their identity has set them apart in the UK and beyond.
With roots in Ghana and Jamaica, the trio injects cultural richness and energy into every production. “Banku & Shito” is another strong reminder of their consistency and unique approach to modern Afro-inspired sounds.
4PLAY continue to prove why they remain an important force in the evolution of Afroswing and house music.
The Chief of Staff at the Presidency, Hon. Julius Debrah, has sworn in the new Board of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC).
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Jubilee House, the seat of government, in Accra, is expected to play a critical role in navigating MASLOC towards greater efficiency, financial sustainability, and equitable support for SME’s and citizens in Ghana.
MASLOC stands for Microfinance and Small Loans Centre. It is an apex body in Ghana responsible for implementing microfinance programs aimed at reducing poverty. MASLOC provides micro and small loans to start-ups and small businesses to help them grow, expand, and create jobs and wealth.
The newly constituted board, made up of seasoned professionals with diverse expertise in finance, governance, entrepreneurship, and development strategy, will work closely with MASLOC’s management team to deepen financial inclusion, improve loan recovery rates, promote sustainable livelihoods, especially among women, youth, and expanding financial services to underserved communities.
In brief remarks, the Chief of Staff, Hon. Julius Debrah, commended MASLOC for its ongoing role in empowering micro and small enterprises, emphasising the pivotal role it plays as a strategic partner in addressing poverty through access to credit and business support.
The newly sworn-in Board Chairperson, Mr. Jerry Nyamekye, in an acceptance speech on behalf of the board, expressed deep gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for the trust reposed in them.
He noted that the Board is fully aware of the great responsibility that comes with this appointment and would work tirelessly to ensure the apex institution for microfinance and small loans, becomes a critical vehicle in advancing the government objectives particularly in promoting financial inclusion, job creation, and poverty alleviation, with a strong focus on resetting the economy of Ghana.
He further pledged the Board’s support to work with discipline, vision, and transparency to reposition the Centre to fully deliver on its mandate.
Mr. Jerry Nyamekye took the opportunity to briefly outline some immediate term, measures and priorities that includes strengthening governance oversight and institutional discipline, particularly in loan recovery and disbursement processes, to safeguard public funds and ensure long-term sustainability and Digitizing operations and loan management systems to enhance monitoring, reduce inefficiencies, and promote transparency and accountability.
Swearing-In Of MASLOC Board Members
These building blocks, he stressed, will form part of a broader and verifiable turnaround agenda that would be coupled with the collective support of the Office of Government Machinery, MASLOC’s management and staff, and our development partners.
The other members of the newly constituted Board also expressed their support and readiness to deliver and ensure that resources are managed with integrity and foresight.
The new MASLOC board members are Mr. Jerry Nyamekye – Chairperson, Madam Abigail Yaa, Hajia Joyce Zaynab Mahama, and Mr. Linus Azeriwie Agalisi – Member.
Others are Nana Amponsah Dokua III, Madam Lily-Love Esetoobu Nunno, and Madam Nana Akyaa Anti.
The rest are Mr. Simon Viglo Amegashie and Madam Beryl Appenteng.
Ghanaian artist Herman Suede has unveiled a captivating remix of his romantic single “One by One”, featuring Sierra Leonean singer The Therapist. The collaboration marks their second musical partnership following their successful work on The Therapist’s “Gobe”, showcasing their natural chemistry on this soulful Afrobeats track about patience in love.
The remix maintains the original’s smooth rhythm and heartfelt message while adding The Therapist’s distinctive vocal texture. Sung primarily in English with a poignant Ga bridge, the song beautifully captures that universal moment of spotting someone across a crowded room and hoping for a deeper connection. Herman Suede’s sincere delivery blends seamlessly with The Therapist’s fresh perspective, creating a richer narrative about letting relationships develop organically.
“This collaboration felt natural after our work on ‘Gobe’,” says Herman Suede. “The Therapist brought exactly the right energy to expand the story we’re telling about taking things slow in love.”
With its relatable lyrics and laid-back Afrobeats groove, the “One by One” remix offers the perfect soundtrack for summer romance. The track demonstrates the growing musical synergy between West African artists across borders, blending Ghanaian and Sierra Leonean influences into a cohesive, contemporary sound.
The Western North Regional Minister, Hon Wilbert Petty Brentum, had the honour of receiving the Chief of Army Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces, Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, at the Regional Coordinating Council.
The discussions centred on strengthening the security architecture of the Western North Region and deepening coordination between the military and the Regional Administration.
The Major General shared plans to decentralise the recruitment process of the Armed Forces, allowing applicants to go through the process right here in the region without the burden of travelling outside.
They also deliberated on the proposed establishment of a military base in the region. This move will not only enhance security but also support our ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining (galamsey).
Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu assured the Regional Minister of the Ghana Army’s support in protecting lands and natural resources.
As a mark of appreciation, the Regional Minister was humbled to be presented with a beautiful commemorative plaque and a ceremonial stole.
Hon Wilbert Petty Brentum remarked, “I am deeply grateful. Together, we remain committed to peace, development, and the safety of our people.”
Ghana, is a west African country, bounded on the north by Burkina Faso, on the east by Togo, on the south by the Atlantic Ocean,and on the west by Côte d’Ivoire.
The visit was aimed at gathering first-hand insights regarding the riot that erupted last month, which stemmed from teachers seizing students’ mobile phones in an effort to arrest the declining academic performance of the students and also enforce discipline.
During their visit, both leaders expressed their profound disapproval of the incident and called on the Headmaster, Mr. Solomon Bagmang, management, and staff to unite efforts to ensure discipline and professionalism within the school.
Accompanying them were the Regional and Municipal Directors of Education, who contributed their perspectives on how best to navigate this challenging situation.
Recognizing the complexities of student unrest, members of the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) as well as the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) were also engaged in the discussions to present their findings from ongoing investigations into the root causes of the riot.
To facilitate open dialogue and ensure that all voices were heard, staff members convened separately from students, allowing for candid discussions aimed at crafting tailored solutions to prevent future occurrences.
This collective effort underscores a commitment not only to restoring order but also enhancing educational standards and student well-being within the region.
The student body, through their leadership, pledged to the delegation not to take the path of disobedience again.
The Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, reiterated that their pressing challenges regarding fencing of the school, dormitories, dining hall, and completing uncompleted projects to enhance teaching and learning are a priority, adding that such issues would soon receive the needed attention.
The MCE for the area, Hon. Joseph Awal Antwi, described the engagement as fruitful and rewarding, hoping that the meeting would open a new chapter in the academic, moral, and social lives of the entire school. 
