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A description of a major Akan cultural ceremony to honor women for prolific childbearing

The article presents the success story of a young Ghanaian entrepreneur

The article explores the veracity of a story told about a foreign visitor who came to Ghana in 1957.

The article explains why the star in Ghana's flag is black, instead of white, silver or golden

Filth Has Spiritual Consequences Okronkronyi Nyame Somafo Yawoh teaches that filth is spiritually derogating and spiritually taxing. According to His teachings, acts that pollute the natural environm

Introduction The extradition of Abu Trica from Ghana to the United States has generated enormous media attention in Ghana. Hardly a newspaper, radio station, television network, or online news platfo

A Disturbing Reality One only needs to read local newspapers or browse Ghana-based online news platforms to appreciate the disturbing frequency of child abuse cases occurring in homes across the coun

Ghana is a country with a rich and vibrant cultural heritage. Long before the arrival of Europeans, the people who inhabited the territory now known as Ghana had developed sophisticated political syst

Among the Akan people of Ghana, belief in God occupies a central place in everyday life. The Akans have long regarded God, known as Nyame, as the Creator of the universe, the source of all life, and t

Introduction One of the most profound pieces of wisdom in Ghanaian culture is the saying: "Good name is better than riches." The Akan version, "Din Pa Yɛ Sen Ahonya," conveys the same timeless messag

A Popular Ghanaian Vehicle Inscription Ghanaian commercial vehicles are often adorned with colorful inscriptions that convey wisdom, faith, humor, and life lessons. One common inscription seen on veh

An Opinion and Advice Column One of the first English idioms I learned after moving to North America—first to Canada and later to the United States—was the expression "get your ducks in a row." At th

Introduction The influence of Ghana on world football extends far beyond the Black Stars. At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, players of Ghanaian heritage can be found representing several nations across Eur

A Disappointing Result Today, June 27, 2026, Ghana's Black Stars faced Croatia in a crucial World Cup match. Across Ghana and among Ghanaians living abroad, millions of passionate supporters rallied

The Neglect of Crime Victims For many decades, the study of crime was largely concerned with offenders. Criminologists focused their attention on criminals, criminal behavior, and the causes of crime

Introduction A society is often judged not by how it treats its rich, powerful, and influential citizens, but by how it treats its weakest and most vulnerable members. Children, the elderly, and pers

Introduction Lethal violence is a starkly gendered phenomenon. Globally, men are overwhelmingly the primary victims and perpetrators of homicide, typically driven by street crime, gang rivalries, and

Introduction In today's world, research has become an important part of national development. Governments, universities, hospitals, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and international agencies r

A Lesson in Humility On June 23, 2026, football fans around the world witnessed a result that few pundits predicted. The Ghana Black Stars, representing a nation once colonized by Britain, battled co

The pundits have given their verdict, but well-seasoned by experience and standing beyond the critics, naysayers, and doubters, the Ghanaian heart remains anchored in a truth storied over decades: the optics are never fatal. We bow to none.

A tactical analysis of what could be a historic encounter between Ghana and England.

Introduction Among Ghana’s sixteen administrative regions, few possess the historical significance, educational prominence, and cultural richness of the Central Region. Located along Ghana’s southern

Introduction Among Ghana’s sixteen administrative regions, few can rival the Western Region in terms of natural wealth, cultural diversity, economic importance, and historical significance. Stretchin

Short commentary on the end result of the Ghana vs Panama match

With barely a few hours to the encounter between Ghana and Panama, we try to explore and understand the nature of football legacy that comes with this encounter.

The Institution of Chop Money Chop money is oftentimes a source of conflict between Ghanaian husbands and their wives. Some of such conflicts result in verbal assaults, verbal disagreements, physical

The Pet-to-Threat Phenomenon Many Black people throughout the Diaspora share stories of what has come to be known as the "pet-to-threat" phenomenon. The pattern is remarkably consistent. Initial succ

Introduction For decades, African leaders have boarded planes to Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East in search of foreign aid. Every year, countless international conferences, donor meet

Introduction The Akan have a wise saying: "If you plant plantain, you will harvest plantain; if you plant cassava, you will harvest cassava; and if you plant pineapples, you will harvest pineapples."

One of the most important features of Akan religious and funeral traditions is the pouring of libation, known in Twi as nsaguo or mpaeyie. The word nsaguo literally means the pouring of an alcoholic d

A Nation Richly Endowed Ghana is richly blessed with natural and human resources. The country possesses some of the world's finest deposits of gold and diamonds. It is endowed with bauxite, manganese

Introduction Every year, as Easter approaches, a familiar phrase echoes across Ghana's radio stations, television screens, and social media platforms: "Kwahu oooo Kwahu!" The expression has become bo

Asase Yaa, in the indigenous religion of the Akan people, is regarded as the great female spirit of the earth. She occupies a position of honor and importance second only to Nyankopon, the Creator. Th

Ghana has made substantial progress in literacy over the past several decades, yet the country has not achieved universal literacy. According to recent UNESCO and World Bank data, approximately 76–81%

A Generation Dissatisfied with the Status Quo Many young people around the world are deeply dissatisfied with the state of the world today. They are troubled by persistent injustices, armed conflicts

Introduction One of the greatest challenges confronting African countries today is the phenomenon known as "brain drain." Every year, thousands of highly educated and skilled Africans leave their hom

Ghana is widely celebrated as one of Africa's most stable democracies. Since the return to constitutional rule in 1992, the country has conducted regular elections, witnessed peaceful transfers of pow

Ghana is often celebrated as one of Africa’s most peaceful and culturally vibrant nations. From the bustling markets of Accra to the fishing communities along the coast, from the savannah settlements

In traditional Ghanaian society, old age is not merely a biological stage of life; it is a position of honor, wisdom, and social responsibility. Elderly men and women occupy a special place within fam

witchcraft

Rastafarians

multilingualism, language

Concluding our series on the Black Stars’ remarkable 2010 World Cup campaign is a feature that reflects on its enduring significance for both Ghanaian and African football

Introduction: When Two Revolutions Met The friendship between Kwame Nkrumah and Ahmed Sékou Touré was not a casual diplomatic acquaintance. It was an ideological alliance forged in the furnace of ant

pet ownership

Conspicuous Consumption and the Funeral Arena The term “conspicuous consumption” was coined by the American economist and sociologist Thorstein Veblen in his classic work The Theory of the Leisure Cl

Understanding One of Ghana’s Most Enduring Social Questions Research on witchcraft in Ghana spans nearly a century and reflects the country’s continuing struggle to understand belief, accusation, fea

In Akan society in Ghana, a chief occupies a revered and sacred position. He is the custodian of the land, the representative of the ancestors, and the moral leader of the community. The stool symboli

This piece takes us back to another breathtaking highlight from the 2010 world cup where the Black Stars reaffirmed their authority in the game of football when the entire world was watching.

For centuries, Ghana has stood at the crossroads of global cultural encounters. Long before the modern era of globalization, the land now called Ghana was already a bustling center of trade and intera

This article critiques the choice of the Ghanaian international Baba Rahman in a World Cup squad that lacks the qualities of athlectism and exuberant talent yet compensating with invisible clarity in experience.

The Volta Region of Ghana Location and Geography The Volta Region is one of the most culturally rich and geographically diverse regions of Ghana. Located in the eastern part of the country, it share

Today's discussion in our series of coverage sports of the black stars heading into the world cup examines the provisional 28-man squad released by Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz.

A feature article from the Road to World Cup 2026 countdown series

Vultures Were A Once Familiar Presence in Ghana’s Skies About fifty years ago, vultures were a common sight across Ghana. One could hardly walk a short distance without encountering them. They perche

As part of our dive down the memory lane with the Black Stars, we come to you with another incredible and important performance that highlights some of the best moments of the Ghana National team in the 2006 World Cup campaign.

When historians discuss the global spread of football, the story is often told through familiar names and places: English schools, British sailors, South American ports, and European clubs. Yet hidden

Asamoah Gyan — Beyond the 2010 Penalty There is another layer to Gyan’s ordeal that many people overlook. After the 2010 World Cup heartbreak, he again missed a crucial penalty during the 2012 Afric

The stadium clock in Cologne had barely ticked past the opening minute when Ghana announced itself to the world. A loose touch in the Czech Republic defence. A flash of movement. Then came the finish

King of Highlife, Nana Ampadu Among the pantheon of Ghanaian musicians who shaped the soundscape of modern West African music, few names command the reverence accorded to Nana Kwame Ampadu I. A compo

A Mother with Sixteen Children to Raise Growing up in Ghana in the 1970s, my mother taught her eight biological children and eight non-biological children the enduring virtues of self-reliance, hard work, and personal dignity. She was a woman of uncommon wisdom who believed that excessive dependence

There are stories of academic success, and then there are stories of destiny shaped by personal struggle, sacrifice, and compassion. The remarkable journey of Dr. Amma Adinkrah belongs to the latter category. This past Saturday, Amma Adinkrah, daughter of Dr. Kwame Adinkrah, proudly graduated with t

There are football matches that end with a scoreline, and there are matches that never truly end. The 2010 FIFA World Cup quarter-final between Ghana national football team and Uruguay national football team belongs firmly in the second category. More than fifteen years later, the image still burns

Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwamena is a distinguished and widely respected businessman from Nkwatia in the Kwahu enclave. Though originally from Nkwatia, he was raised in Nkawkaw, where he also began his early education at the elementary level. His academic journey took him through two notable institutions—

A Land of Heights and HeritageIn Ghana’s Eastern Region lies Kwahu, a unique and historically rich area known not only for its breathtaking landscape but also for the resilience and enterprise of its people. Often referred to as Asaase Aban—meaning “Natural Fortress”—Kwahu stands out as the highest

In the years following independence, Ghana set out to build not just a nation, but also a global presence. Among its boldest achievements was the creation of Ghana Airways, once one of Africa’s most respected national carriers. For decades, the airline symbolized ambition, connectivity, and national

The story of Ghana’s “Dream Team” is not merely a sporting tale; it is a generational narrative—one that reflects continuity, discipline, and the organic evolution of talent within Ghanaian football. Though the phrase “Dream Team” is more commonly associated with Olympic squads, in Ghanaian discours

In 2019, Ghana made a bold and historic statement to the world. Through an initiative known as the Year of Return 2019, the country invited people of African descent across the globe to reconnect with their roots, history, and identity. This was not just a tourism campaign. It was a deeply symbolic

The world today is full of religions. By merely casting a cursory glance around us, we encounter Christians and Christianity, Hindus and Hinduism, Muslims and Islam, atheists, agnostics, traditionalists, Zionists, Jews and Judaism, Confucianists and Confucianism, Shintos and Shintoism. Religion, as

Scholars who study society—sociologists, anthropologists, and others—have long observed that religion exists in every known culture. Because of this, religion is often described as a cultural universal. It is not limited to one people or place; it is a shared human experience. In today’s world, reli

History is rarely linear. It moves in cycles—of rise, dispersal, memory, and resurgence. In July 2010, under the floodlights of Soccer City in Johannesburg, a moment unfolded that seemed to collapse centuries into ninety minutes (and then one hundred and twenty). Ghana’s Black Stars stood on the bri

Sociologists define religion as a system of shared beliefs and practices through which people relate to what they consider sacred or supernatural. In simple terms, religion helps people make sense of life, death, and the world beyond what we can see. A Cultural Universal One important idea in sociol

Few infrastructure projects in the history of Ghana have had as profound an impact as the construction of the Akosombo Dam. Built in the early years of Ghana’s independence, the project symbolized the ambitious development vision of the country’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, who believed that ind

Few names in Ghanaian football command as much reverence as Baba Yara. Gifted, charismatic, and electrifying on the field, Baba Yara remains one of the greatest footballers Ghana has ever produced. Though his career was tragically cut short, his brilliance and influence left an enduring mark on the

An observable feature of Ghanaian social life is a recurring tendency toward silence in moments that might otherwise call for resistance or confrontation. Even when individuals experience clear forms of mistreatment, there is often a strong social and cultural pull toward restraint rather than actio

Introduction The question of whether the criminalization of witchcraft accusations would have any meaningful impact in Ghana requires careful and systematic analysis. At present, witchcraft accusations are largely non-criminal, meaning there are no specific laws prohibiting individuals from accusing

In every society, including Ghana, there exist disabled people living with various forms of disability. These disabilities take many shapes and forms. Some are physical, affecting mobility, sight, hearing, or bodily function. Others are mental or psychological, influencing cognition, emotional regul

In Ghana, cigarette smoking is strongly gendered. Men smoke; women generally do not. It is relatively rare to see a woman or young girl smoking in public, and when this does occur, it often attracts social disapproval. Women and girls who smoke may be labeled as morally deviant or associated with se

Origins and Cultural Heritage Professor Dr. Mensah Adinkrah, Professor of Sociology, Criminology, and Criminal Justice, is a native of Kwahu-Nkwatia in the Eastern Region of Ghana. Kwahu (also rendered as Kwawu) refers both to a geographical area and to a distinct Akan subgroup inhabiting the region

Rules, Laws, and Social Order All human societies are governed by rules. These rules regulate behavior by defining what individuals may do and what they must refrain from doing. Without such rules, social life would be chaotic, unpredictable, and ultimately unsustainable. Rules make social interacti

A Nation Defined by Peace In a region and continent that have, at various historical moments, been scarred by conflict and instability, Ghana stands out as a compelling example of relative peace. Since gaining independence in 1957, the country has largely avoided the large-scale civil wars that have

Oftentimes, in Africa, people conflate respect with fear, treating them as if they are interchangeable. Yet within Akan moral language, a clear distinction is maintained between fɛreɛ (respect) and suro (fear). To say “me fɛre wo” is fundamentally different from “me suro wo.” The former connotes est

Introduction: A Name That Became a Symbol In the sociological imagination of the Gold Coast—what is today Ghana—names are never merely labels; they are identities, narratives, and sometimes prophecies. The name Abedi Pele transcends the ordinary. It is a fusion of biography, mythmaking, and cultural

Robert Mensah: A Football Story and Tragedy in the Ghanaian Football In the annals of Ghanaian sporting history, few names evoke as much reverence, myth, and sorrow as Robert Mensah. His story is not merely about football; it is a narrative woven into the socio-cultural fabric of late colonial Gold

Few names in African sport command as much reverence as Azumah Nelson. In the annals of global boxing history, Nelson stands not merely as a champion but as an embodiment of discipline, intellect, and tactical brilliance. His nickname—“The Professor”—suggests a fighter whose victories were not only

Introduction Adinkra cloth is one of the most important traditional textiles of Ghana and a significant cultural expression among the Akan people, particularly the Asante. Unlike Kente cloth, which is woven, Adinkra cloth is made by stamping symbolic designs onto fabric using special dyes. The cloth

Kente cloth is one of the most famous traditional textiles of West Africa and is strongly associated with Ghana. It is a handwoven cloth made from narrow strips of silk or cotton that are stitched together to form a larger fabric. The cloth is distinguished by its brilliant colors, geometric pattern

When people discuss the early history of football, the narrative often begins in Britain and gradually expands to the rest of the world. Rarely, however, does the conversation turn toward West Africa—particularly the historic Gold Coast, present-day Ghana. Yet one of the most remarkable pioneers of

The early years of Ghana’s independence, particularly between 1957 and the mid-1960s, reveal the gradual emergence of state control over the media. While independence initially generated optimism about press freedom, archival newspaper records, government policies, and editorial patterns show that s

A Historic Emblem of Independence The Ghana national flag is more than a piece of cloth fluttering in the wind; it is a powerful symbol of the country’s history, aspirations, and identity. First officially adopted on March 6, 1957—the same day Ghana became the first African nation to gain independen

Accra Hearts of Oak Sporting Club was formally established on 11 November 1911 in Accra (then part of the British colony called the Gold Coast). Founded by a group of young men, including Christopher Brandford Nettey and Akom Duncan, it was part of the earliest wave of organized football in the regi

Among the Akan people of Ghana, pouring libation is one of the most important traditional religious practices. It is a solemn ritual through which people communicate with the spiritual world. The act symbolizes reverence for the ancestors, recognition of the Supreme Being, and a request for protecti

The Akan of GhanaThe Akan are an ethnic group that live in Ghana. They occupy a broad stretch of territory extending from the coastal areas to the central forest belt of the country. Historically and culturally, the Akan constitute one of the largest ethnolinguistic groups in Ghana and share closely

In the history of Ghana, few names command as much reverence and admiration as Kwame Nkrumah. More than half a century after his passing, the memory of the man who led the nation to freedom continues to inspire generations. His words echo in political discourse, his ideas shape national debates, and

The leadership of Yaa Asantewaa in the 1900 war against British colonial rule remains one of the most extraordinary and symbolically powerful episodes in African resistance history. Her decision to lead the Ashanti (Asante) in armed rebellion was not an accident of circumstance—it emerged from a com

Ghana stands for “God Has Anointed the Nation Already.” Many Ghanaians see their country not merely as a geographical territory in West Africa, but as a land endowed with immense natural, human, and spiritual blessings. From abundant mineral wealth to fertile agricultural lands and a vibrant populat

Introduction: Why March Matters Every year, the month of March occupies a sacred place in Ghana’s historical calendar. On 6 March 1957, under the leadership of Kwame Nkrumah, the Gold Coast became Ghana — the first sub-Saharan African nation to gain independence from British colonial rule. March is

When the Gold Coast achieved independence on March 6, 1957, becoming Ghana, the event generated immense public excitement and hope. For millions of Ghanaians, independence was not merely a constitutional change—it represented the promise of economic prosperity, political empowerment, social transfor

In every society, there are culturally accepted symbols of success. There are also culturally approved means for attaining these symbols of success. These aspirations and goals form what can be called a society’s “dream.” In the same way that some people speak of their national dream, it is possible

For many years, this question has generated curiosity, debate, and speculation. But the answer lies not only in romance. It lies in politics, diplomacy, and a bold continental vision during one of the most transformative periods in African history. When Ghana gained independence from Britain on Marc

In 1964, at just 22 years old, the newly crowned world heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali stepped onto Ghanaian soil—and into African history. Fresh from his stunning victory over Sonny Liston in Miami, the young champion—then newly renamed Muhammad Ali—embarked on a tour of Africa. One of the

In the years following Ghana’s independence in 1957, one of the most influential political and intellectual concepts articulated by Kwame Nkrumah was “neo-colonialism.” For Nkrumah, independence did not mark the end of foreign domination in Africa. Instead, he argued that a new, more subtle form of

The question of whether independence in 1957 marked the true birth of a free African press in the Gold Coast—now Ghana—is both historically complex and deeply debated. While Ghana’s independence symbolized political liberation from colonial rule, the evolution of press freedom was far more gradual a

The banning of opposition parties in Ghana during the late 1950s and early 1960s stands as one of the most consequential moments in the country’s political and media history. Newspapers of the era did not merely report the development—they actively shaped how the public understood the meaning of pol

The relationship between newspapers and Ghana’s Independence Day celebrations is deeply rooted in the country’s political history and media evolution. From the late colonial period through the attainment of independence in 1957 and into the post-colonial era, newspapers played a central role in docu

In the years surrounding Ghana’s independence and early nation-building period (roughly the mid-1950s through the early 1960s), one of the most persistent and consequential public discussions revolved around the tension between press freedom and national unity. Newspapers themselves became both the

The emergence of Ghana as an independent nation in 1957 was not only a political milestone but also a global media event. Newspapers—both local and international—played a decisive role in announcing the birth of the new state to the world. Through headlines, editorials, photographs, and diplomatic r

The portrayal of Kwame Nkrumah as a national hero was not simply a spontaneous public perception—it was carefully shaped, amplified, and sustained through newspapers and other media channels during the late colonial and early post-independence periods. In the Gold Coast, now Ghana, the press played

The development of newspaper culture in the Gold Coast—today known as Ghana—was inseparable from the spread of formal education during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Education did far more than teach reading and writing; it fundamentally reshaped social structures, created new intelle

Early Life and Education Kwame Nkrumah was born in 1909 in what Ghana is now, West Africa. He studied both in Ghana and overseas, gaining knowledge that would later shape his vision for his country and the continent. Leader of Ghana’s Independence Nkrumah emerged as one of the most prominent politic

During the colonial period in the Gold Coast—modern-day Ghana—newspapers were not merely instruments of public communication; they were powerful tools of governance and political control. Colonial governors recognized early that controlling the flow of information was essential for maintaining autho

The concept of “chiefs’ consent” occupies a central place in the colonial history of the Gold Coast, present-day Ghana. Throughout the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, colonial authorities frequently claimed that African chiefs willingly agreed to treaties, land concessions, and administrat

The growth of newspaper readership in the Gold Coast—modern-day Ghana—cannot be understood without examining the critical role played by nineteenth-century mission schools. These educational institutions, established by European Christian missions, were not only centers of religious instruction but

The end of the trans-Atlantic slave trade in the nineteenth century is often presented in historical narratives as a clear moral victory led by European abolitionists. However, in reality, the process was complex, uneven, and frequently misrepresented—particularly in early newspapers and colonial re

The qualification of the Ghana national football team — popularly known as the Black Stars — for the 2006 FIFA World Cup stands as one of the most transformative milestones in Ghana’s sporting and national history. It was not merely a football achievement; it was the culmination of decades of ambiti

The history of slavery and abolition in the area now known as Ghana is deeply intertwined with global economic systems, imperial expansion, African political structures, and the emergence of print journalism as a powerful instrument of public opinion. From the fifteenth century through the nineteent

The Atlantic as Living Arena Along the Atlantic edge of the pre-colonial Gold Coast, long before European forts punctuated the shoreline, the sea was already a theatre of movement, daring, and communal pride. The coastal societies of present-day Ghana—particularly the Fante, Ga, and related Akan mar

Along the wind-carved coastline of southern Ghana, among the Fante, physical games were never idle diversions. They were social rehearsals—training grounds for endurance, hierarchy, and communal rhythm. Two in particular—Atentam and Osibir—stand out in the historical record. Atentam derives from the

Recent reports in the Ghanaian media have once again drawn attention to a disturbing and persistent problem: the murder, attempted murder, and lynching of women accused of practicing witchcraft. These incidents are often shocking in their brutality and tragic in their consequences. They also raise a

Africa is still the “dark continent” to many people. In spite of its immense size, large population, vast mineral and agricultural resources, militarily strategic location, and tremendous development potential, Africa is undeniably the most misunderstood continent. Very few non-natives of the contin

Violence against persons accused of witchcraft remains a troubling reality in parts of Ghana. Although our nation prides itself on hospitality, communal solidarity, and deep respect for human dignity, allegations of witchcraft too often trigger acts of cruelty that contradict these cherished values.

Long before colonial stadium lights and organised leagues, the sandy shores and village squares of the Gold Coast—today’s Ghana—were vibrant arenas where traditional wrestling was among the most respected cultural practices. From the early 19th century up to the turn of the 20th century, indigenous

In Ghana, the overwhelming majority of people accused of witchcraft are women and girls. Nearly all victims killed during witch hunts are female. In the so-called “witch camps” or “outcast homes” in northern Ghana, it is rare to find a man among the residents. The population is almost entirely women

In Ghanaian society, names are never random. A name is a story, a memory, a prayer, a verdict on experience, or a declaration of destiny. Ghanaian surnames—particularly Akan surnames—carry deep cultural meanings that often encode family history, spiritual beliefs, social struggles, and moments of tr

The Akan constitute one of the major ethnic groups in Ghana, accounting for approximately 46 percent of the national population. They speak Twi, a language that is understood and spoken by nearly 90 percent of the country’s population. The Akan are made up of several subgroups, including the Asante,

Kwame Nkrumah is one of the foremost Pan-Africanists Africa has ever produced. He devoted his life to the political, economic, and cultural liberation of the African continent. He played a leading role in the establishment of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), now known as the African Union (A

Africa is one of the most misunderstood places in the world. Popular myths—often repeated in classrooms, media, and casual conversation—have distorted global understanding of the continent. Below are some common falsehoods about Africa, alongside the facts. False: Africa Is a Country True: Africa is

Littering is a serious problem in Ghana. Across cities, towns, and rural communities, many people indiscriminately throw away empty drink bottles, plastic containers, plastic wraps, paper, and leftover food on the ground. Streets, gutters, open spaces, and markets are increasingly turned into inform

Children and the Future of the Nation Children are the future of every society. When a nation fails to nurture and guide its children properly, it mortgages its own future. Ghana today faces a troubling situation: unless deliberate efforts are made to mould children into disciplined, responsible, an

Irresponsible alcohol consumption has become a growing social problem in Ghana, with serious consequences for individuals, families, and communities. Some drinkers spend a large proportion of their income on alcohol, leaving little or nothing for basic necessities such as food, clothing, rent, medic

Imprisonment, also known as incarceration, is one of the most severe penalties imposed by courts in Ghana and elsewhere. Judges and magistrates have several sentencing options at their disposal, including fines, probation, community service, and custodial sentences. Prison is usually reserved for pe

Imprisonment is one of the most common punishments for crime in many societies, including Ghana. It is also known as incarceration. While courts have several options for punishing offenders—such as fines, probation, or community service—prison sentences are usually reserved for serious crimes like r

Life on the Streets: A Visible Social Failure On the streets of Ghana, many people living with mental illness wander without care, shelter, or dignity. Some are dressed in dirty, tattered clothing; others are barely clothed, and a few are completely naked. Their presence is a visible reminder of a d

Feminism Is Not a Dirty Word Sexism is wrong. It is prejudice and discrimination against people because of their sex or gender. In many societies, including Ghana, sexist attitudes are often directed at women and girls. These attitudes show up in everyday behavior—how women are spoken to, how their

Rape and sexual assault are among the most serious crimes in Ghana, leaving victims with profound physical, emotional, and psychological scars. Despite public awareness campaigns and media reporting, sexual violence continues to occur in society, highlighting the urgent need for vigilance, education

In the past, Ghanaian marriages endured. Separation was rare and divorce uncommon. Today, however, marriages are dissolving at an alarming rate. The critical question is this: what can be done to fortify marriages and restore their durability? Many of the challenges confronting contemporary marriage

In the past, Ghanaian marriages were widely regarded as enduring unions. Separations were rare, and divorce was uncommon. Marriages were expected to last a lifetime, sustained not only by the couple but also by their extended families and lineages. Today, however, the situation has changed dramatica

Ghanaian society traditionally values respect for the elderly. Older people are regarded as repositories of wisdom, custodians of tradition, and moral anchors of the family. Yet beneath this ideal lies a troubling reality: many elderly persons in Ghana experience neglect, abuse, and profound social

Every year, thousands of children in Ghana suffer abuse at the hands of those entrusted with their care—parents, guardians, and relatives. Reports of battered, neglected, and traumatized children frequently appear in the Ghanaian mass media, often accompanied by disturbing images and heartbreaking d

For a long time, Ghanaians have embraced foreign ways and ideas that have not served them well and, in many cases, have undermined national development. For this reason, some Ghanaians are increasingly calling for cultural and linguistic self-determination as a necessary step if the nation is to mov

Widespread Beliefs in GhostsAlthough no large-scale self-report study has been conducted on belief in ghosts in Ghana, it is fair to say that belief in ghosts or apparitions is widespread across the country. These beliefs are especially strong among the Akan of southern Ghana, where ideas about deat

Pronatalism refers to a strong cultural and social preference for having children, often accompanied by expectations that adults should reproduce as a normal and desirable life course. In Ghanaian society, having one’s own child is not merely a personal choice; it is widely regarded as a social obli

Among the Akan people of Ghana, names are more than labels—they are living symbols of heritage, identity, social bonds, and spiritual connection. Akan naming traditions reflect a society where lineage, ancestry, and morality are woven into the very words that identify a person. Origins of Akan Surna

A taboo is an act so deeply forbidden that it provokes moral outrage, fear, or spiritual anxiety when violated. Taboos are cultural universals: every society draws invisible lines that must not be crossed. Yet these lines are not the same everywhere. What one society condemns as unthinkable may be o

When Two Elephants Fight, the Earth Underneath Suffers Marriage is ideally meant to be a source of companionship, love, and emotional security between husband and wife. Yet in Ghana, as in many societies across the world, the promise of marital bliss is too often shattered by domestic violence, part

Among the Akan people of southern Ghana, funerals are more than ceremonies—they are profound cultural, spiritual, and social events that reflect the community’s understanding of life, death, and the afterlife. Central to Akan beliefs is the conviction that life continues after death. While the body

Punishment is a central feature of every organized society, including Ghana. While rewards are designed to encourage conformity and socially approved behavior, punishment exists to negatively sanction deviant behavior. When individuals act in ways that align with societal norms, they are often rewar

Cohabitation refers to an intimate arrangement in which a man and a woman live together in a shared residence without being formally married. While cohabitation has become increasingly common in many contemporary societies, it is generally frowned upon in Akan society and regarded as socially improp

Polygamy refers to a marital arrangement in which a person is permitted to have two or more spouses at the same time. Although the term polygamy is often used loosely in everyday conversation, sociologists and anthropologists make important distinctions among its different forms. There are two main

Sociologists use the term ableism to describe prejudice, discrimination, and social exclusion directed against persons with disabilities. The terms ablism and disablism are also used in the scholarly literature to refer to the same phenomenon, namely, the systematic disadvantaging of people whose bo

In Ghana, there exists a long-standing practice in which some parents send their children to live with other families as househelps. While this arrangement is often justified as a strategy for providing children with better opportunities, it has, in many cases, become a source of profound exploitati

No one is born with knowledge. Human beings are born with the capacity to learn, but what they eventually know—how they speak, think, behave, believe, and interpret the world—is acquired from society. Knowledge, values, attitudes, and skills are socially produced and socially transmitted. By the tim

Among the Akan of Ghana, naming is never a casual act. Names locate a person in time, history, morality, and the spiritual universe. One of the most distinctive Akan naming practices is the giving of day names (kradin), assigned according to the day of the week on which a child is born. These names

The causes of Rural–Urban Migration are major concerns of African governments like Ghana. Across Ghana and much of Africa, a defining social transformation of the 21st century is the movement of people from the countryside to towns and cities. Every year, thousands of young people leave rural commun

In many Ghanaian communities, accusations of witchcraft generate intense moral outrage and social hostility. Persons believed to be malevolent witches are frequently subjected to verbal abuse, physical assault, forced displacement, and, in extreme cases, extrajudicial killing (Adinkrah, 2004, 2015).

African witchcraft versus European witchcraft have been the focus of local discussions about witchcraft in Ghana for many years. During the period of European colonization, westernization, and the early stages of modernization, people in the Gold Coast (now Ghana) struggled to explain the wide gap i

The Akans are the largest ethnic group in Ghana, comprising approximately 46 percent of the national population. The Akan language, commonly referred to as Twi, is widely spoken across the country. Although it is the mother tongue of the Akan people, it also functions as a lingua franca and is under

In every society, people occupy different positions called statuses. A status is simply the position a person holds in society. Throughout life, one person can have many statuses at the same time—for example, being a child, a parent, a worker, a student, or a citizen. Sociologists talk about two mai

Few modern technologies have transformed Ghana as deeply and as quickly as financial technology (fintech). What began as simple mobile phone services has grown into a digital financial ecosystem that reshaped banking, trade, and daily survival for millions of Ghanaians. Before Fintech: A Cash-Heavy

Marital and relationship breakdowns occur for many reasons, and these reasons often vary from one society to another. Pe

Children are the future of every society. Yet Ghana faces a serious challenge if urgent steps are not taken to ensure that today’s children are properly guided and nurtured to grow into law-abiding and responsible citizens. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in juvenile delinquenc

Some call it mob justice. Others describe it as instant justice or vigilante justice. But where, indeed, is the justice when a person is beaten, maimed, or killed without a proper trial or lawful conviction by the legally constituted justice system of the land? Every year in Ghana, scores of individ

A visitor to Ghana will quickly notice something striking on the roads: commercial motor vehicles speak. Tro-tros, buses, taxis, and long-distance vehicles often carry inscriptions—short messages painted boldly on the body of the vehicle. These inscriptions may appear on the back of the vehicle, acr

Witchcraft is commonly understood in Ghana as a supernatural power believed to be possessed by some individuals, enabling them to influence the behavior, health, fortune, or misfortune of others—either as victims or beneficiaries. Belief in witchcraft and witches remains widespread and deeply embedd

Newspapers occupy an important place in Ghanaian society. Long before the rise of social media and online news platforms, newspapers were the primary source of information for the public. Even today, despite digital competition, newspapers continue to serve critical social, political, educational, a

When entering a typical town or village in Ghana, a traveler is often welcomed by a metal signpost bearing the name of the place. These names are familiar to residents, yet many people rarely pause to ask an important question: How did this town get its name? In Ghana, as in many parts of the…

A new religious movement has emerged in Ghana known as Asomdwee Ntonton Som, a name that translates literally as “Peace and Exaltation Religion.” Ghana is a deeply multireligious society, long accustomed to religious plurality. Christianity—represented by historic denominations such as Catholic, Pre

Culture refers to the total way of life of a people. It encompasses both material and non-material elements. Material culture consists of tangible aspects that can be seen and touched, such as cooking practices, eating utensils, earthenware, palanquins, drums, and idiophones. Non-material culture, b

Animism is the belief that the environment and society are populated with spirits. Many Ghanaians hold animistic beliefs, maintaining that their surroundings are inhabited by spiritual beings. Some of these spirits are believed to be benevolent, while others are considered malevolent. Animistic beli

Ghana is a multiethnic and multilingual country, home to numerous ethnic groups with distinct histories and cultural traditions. Among these groups are the Kwahu people, one of the many subgroups within the larger Akan ethnic group. The Kwahu are primarily located in the Eastern Region of Ghana. The

Traffic accidents in Ghana are more than statistics—they are daily tragedies that claim lives, ruin families, and leave survivors with lifelong injuries. Beyond the loss of life, road crashes lead to pain, suffering, disability, and economic hardship for individuals and communities alike. Recent dat

In Ghana, success is loudly celebrated, quietly envied, and endlessly debated. Yet, beneath the noise of social media displays, church testimonies, political slogans, and family expectations lies a deeper question we rarely pause to ask ourselves honestly: what does success truly mean to you? Not to

Almost everyone dreams of success. From childhood, we are taught to aspire, to achieve, and to “make it” in life. Parents encourage their children to succeed, communities celebrate successful people, and society often rewards those it considers accomplished. But an important question remains: What d

In an age of rapid social change, urbanization, and shifting lifestyles, it is worth asking a simple but important question: What is a family, and why do we still need one? Despite changes in how people live and relate to one another, the family remains the most fundamental institution in every soci

In Ghana today, many parents encourage their children to speak English, sometimes at the expense of local languages. This trend is common not only in Ghana but also among Ghanaian families living abroad. While parents may believe that prioritizing English will make their children academically bright

Across Africa, myths and misunderstandings about bedwetting continue to affect children and families. In Ghana, many parents still believe that children who wet their beds at night are lazy or unwilling to wake up to urinate. As a result, some children are physically disciplined. In past decades, pa

Time to Break Old Beliefs For too long, society has told girls they are weaker, less capable, or meant to play second fiddle to boys. It’s time to shatter that myth. Girls can do it all—excel in school, lead in government, innovate in business, and make decisions that shape nations. Gender does not

Discarding Outdated Beliefs It is time for Africans to discard the outdated belief that boys and girls differ in abilities and potential. For too long, harmful cultural attitudes have suggested that women should play second fiddle to men. But reality proves otherwise: for everything a boy or a man c

In Ghana, boys are socialized from an early age into the belief that boys do not cry. Among the Akan, any attempt by a boy to cry is frequently met with the admonition “gyae, barima nsu”—literally, “stop, boys do not cry.” This injunction reflects a broader cultural script that equates emotional res

Every society has norms, which are rules that guide behavior. One important norm in Ghana concerns the use of the left hand in social interactions. Traditionally in Ghana, using the left hand in social interactions can be problematic. Giving something to someone or receiving something with the left

Every year, thousands of tourists visit Ghana. According to the 2024 Tourism Report published by the Ghana Tourism Authority, Ghana welcomed 1,288,804 international visitors in 2024. The country continues to promote tourism in order to expand the industry and increase its benefits. This raises an im

Akan Day Names (Kra Din) Different societies have different ways of naming their children. Among the Akan people of Ghana, newborns are given a special name based on the day of the week on which they are born. This name is called a “kra din.” In Twi, the widely spoken Akan language, kra (or okra)…

Written by Mensah Adinkrah, Ph.D. Ritual murder is the killing of a person with the intention of using the victim’s blood, body, or body parts to perform rituals or prepare what is often described as “medicine” for personal gain. It is one of the most heinous crimes anyone can commit. Taking another

Corporal punishment is when an adult uses physical force to discipline or control a child, with the aim of causing pain, though not serious injury. In simple terms, it means hurting a child’s body to punish them. Examples of corporal punishment include beating or caning, slapping or spanking, whippi

In 1858, Charles Bannerman — the son of a British lieutenant governor and an Asante princess — founded the Accra Herald, recognized as the first African-produced newspaper in West Africa. Unlike the colonial-run press, this handwritten paper reached primarily African readers, circulating among some

Suicide is defined as death resulting from self-directed harmful behavior carried out with the intent to die. A suicidol

The first English newspaper on the continent of Africa was published in Cape Town in 1800. The following year in Sierra Leone, The Royal Gazette and Sierra Leone Advertiser were published in Freetown. Both were European undertakings concerned with matters of government. In 1826, Charles Force, an Am

📰 Covered later by: Gold Coast Gazette, missionary newsletters The signing of the Bond of 1844 between Fante chiefs and the British Crown formalized colonial judicial authority in the Gold Coast. Though newspapers were limited at the time, later colonial press publications referenced the Bond as th

Royal Gold Coast Gazette & Commercial Intelligencer 📰 Newspaper: Royal Gold Coast Gazette📍 Location: Cape Coast In 1822, the British colonial administration introduced the Royal Gold Coast Gazette & Commercial Intelligencer, marking the birth of journalism in the Gold Coast. The handwritten paper

If there is one idea that has mattered more to Ghana than any other from the Gold Coast era to the present, it is the struggle for self-governance and accountable leadership. From colonial domination to modern democracy, Ghana’s history has been shaped by a single, powerful question: Who governs us,

Corruption remains one of the most enduring social challenges confronting Ghana. Its roots stretch back to the colonial Gold Coast era (1821–1957) and continue to influence governance, public trust, and national development today. Understanding this long history is essential to appreciating why corr

Few technological developments have reshaped Ghana as profoundly as the Advancement of communication technology. From the first telegraph lines laid by colonial authorities to today’s smartphones and internet-driven economy, communication has changed how Ghanaians trade, govern, organize, and connec

Long before Ghana had a film industry or digital streaming platforms, music was the country’s most powerful form of entertainment—and Highlife became its loudest voice. From colonial ballrooms to roadside bars and global stages, Highlife music has shaped Ghana’s cultural identity for more than a cen

Introduction: Sport as a Mirror of Ghana’s History Long before Ghana was known by its modern name, sport and physical competition were already embedded in the social, political, and spiritual life of its people. From the ancient kingdoms of the Gold Coast to independence in 1957 and into the modern

Few business stories have shaped Ghana as deeply and enduringly as cocoa. From a small agricultural experiment in the late 19th century to becoming the backbone of the national economy, cocoa transformed the Gold Coast into one of the world’s most important producers and laid the foundation for mode

Politics Before the State Called Ghana Long before the name Ghana was adopted in 1957, the land and peoples of the Gold Coast had already developed sophisticated political systems. Politics in Ghana did not begin with Europeans or colonial rule; it evolved from indigenous governance structures, cust