Country Profile: Ghana
Ghana, located in West Africa along the Gulf of Guinea, is a multiethnic nation rich in natural resources, including gold and cocoa. With a population of approximately 35 million, Ghana is known for its democratic governance and stability, having transitioned to a multi-party system in 1992. The economy has seen significant growth, particularly in the mining and agricultural sectors, though it faces challenges such as inflation and debt management.
Geography
Ghana is situated in Western Africa, bordered by Côte d'Ivoire to the west and Togo to the east. The country features a diverse climate and topography, with mostly low plains and a dissected plateau in the south-central region.
- Total area: 238,533 sq km
- Land boundaries: 2,420 km with Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, and Togo
- Coastline: 539 km
- Natural resources include gold, timber, and bauxite.
- Lake Volta is the world's largest artificial lake by surface area.
People and Society
As of 2025, Ghana's population is estimated at 35,336,133, comprising various ethnic groups, predominantly Akan. The official language is English, with a rich tapestry of local dialects spoken throughout the country.
- Population growth rate: 2.12%
- Urbanization rate: 59.2% of the population resides in urban areas.
- Median age: 21.6 years
- Life expectancy: 70.1 years
- Literacy rate: 76.5%
Economy
Ghana's economy is classified as lower-middle income, heavily reliant on exports of gold, cocoa, and oil. Despite challenges, recent fiscal reforms have aimed to stabilize the economy and manage inflation.
- GDP (PPP): $243.124 billion (2024 est.)
- Real GDP growth rate: 5.7% (2024 est.)
- Unemployment rate: 3.1%
- Public debt: Approximately 73.4% of GDP (2016 est.)
- Poverty rate: 23.4% below the national poverty line (2016 est.)
Government
Ghana operates as a presidential republic with a robust democratic framework. The capital city is Accra, and the government is characterized by a mixed legal system of common law and customary law.
- Independence: 6 March 1957
- Current president: John Dramani MAHAMA (since January 2025)
- Legislature: Unicameral Parliament with 276 seats
- Voting age: 18 years
- Constitution: Last drafted in 1992, allows for multiparty elections.
Military and Security
The Ghana Armed Forces, composed of the Army, Air Force, and Navy, play critical roles in both national defense and peacekeeping operations internationally.
- Military expenditures: 0.4% of GDP (2024 est.)
- Active personnel strength: Estimated 15,000-20,000
- Military service age: 18-27 years
- UN peacekeeping deployments: Over 1,500 personnel in various missions as of 2025.
Energy
Ghana's energy sector is developing, with a mix of fossil fuels and renewable energy sources. Access to electricity has improved, though disparities remain between urban and rural areas.
- Electricity access: 85.1% of the total population (2022 est.)
- Total petroleum production: 176,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
- Electricity installed capacity: 5.519 million kW (2023 est.)
- Hydroelectricity accounts for: 37.8% of total capacity
Environment
Ghana faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, drought, and water pollution. The government participates in multiple international environmental agreements aimed at promoting sustainability.
- Agricultural land: 55.4% of land use (2023 est.)
- Urban population: 59.2% (2023)
- Total emissions: 20.822 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Transportation
Ghana's transportation network includes air, rail, and maritime, facilitating both domestic and international connectivity.
- Airports: 11 (2025)
- Railways total: 947 km
- Merchant marine: 52 vessels (2023)
Communications
The communications sector in Ghana has expanded significantly, with a growing number of mobile subscriptions and internet usage.
- Mobile cellular subscriptions: 39.1 million (2024)
- Internet users: 70% of the population (2023 est.)
- Fixed-line subscriptions: 269,000 (2024 est.)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 35,336,133 | 2025 estimate |
| Area | 238,533 sq km | |
| GDP (PPP) | $243.124 billion | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.1% | 2024 estimate |
| Energy Consumption per Capita | 10.493 million Btu/person | 2023 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 27.09 births/1,000 | 2025 estimate |
| Life Expectancy at Birth | 70.1 years | 2024 estimate |
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