Independent from Britain since 1957, Ghana is one of five African nations along the northern coastline of the Gulf of Guinea. It is bordered on the west by Cote d’Ivoire, on the north by Burkina Faso, and on the east by Togo. The country consists mostly of low-lying savannah regions. Ghana is a tropical country, with moderate temperatures, averaging 21-32 C, and sunshine and constant breezes. There are two rainy seasons, from march-July and from September-October. August is a short dry spell and a longer one is between mid-October-March. The south of the country experiences the heaviest rainfall during September. The population is a mosaic of ethnic groups and religions. The majority of ethnic groups are the Ashanti, the Ewe, the Ga-Adangbe, the Mole-Dagbani, the Guan and the Gurma, with Christian (43%), Animists (38%) and 12% are Muslims.
GHANAIAN CULTURE
Ghana is truly a multi-cultural country. As a volunteer you should strive to observe, listen and learn the culture of your host country. Therefore, you should always remain observant and non-judgemental.
Akwaaba, you will often hear this word or other words of welcome when you are in Ghana. Ghanaians are welcoming in nature and among the world’s friendliest people. Currently, urbanisation and westernization are breaking down many ancients’ beliefs and practices; however, Ghanaians are still maintaining their traditional African culture with great pride from ancient times to the present.
BASIC CULTURAL PRINCIPLES.
You will be embarking on a typical cross-cultural experience in which you will be exposed to different ways of thinking, speaking, and interacting. There are certain principles that will help you to enjoy a positive experience and avoid some of the possible misunderstandings that can occur in cross-cultural settings.
CULTURE AND CULTURAL SHOCK.
It is obvious that you are entering a new environment where very little is familiar. You will probably be disorientated at the start. Some people call this “culture shock”, experts have suggested that there are four stages of culture shock:
1. Initial euphoria
2. Irritability and hostility
3. Gradual adjustment
4. Adaptation
Almost everyone experiences culture shock to some degree. It can be frustrating, and confusing, But there are positive steps that can be taken to minimise the impact.
• Realise that this is normal and that you will live through it.
• Be open-minded and ready to learn. You will come to realise that there are different ways to do things and that's okay.
• Research your new culture. You can begin today, reading as much as you can about the Ghanaian culture that you will be experiencing.
• Look for logical reasons for behaviours in the new culture that you may find strange. With a little analysis, you may find that these different behaviours don’t seem so strange at all.
Above all, flexibility, humility and open-mindedness will be your most valuable traits. These may have even been the key qualities that led you to volunteer in the first place, so it should not be difficult for you.
LANGUAGE. There are 52 major languages and hundreds of dialects in Ghana. Each language is very complex and adequate in its particular setting. Many Ghanaians speak several different languages, demonstrating a linguistic skill that is totally unknown to most westerners. You will do well to attempt to learn as much of the local languages as you can. Ghanaians are very encouraging of this and feel honoured when you show this level of respect and concern. You will find that the English spoken in Ghana is quiet different in tone, pronunciation and vocabulary from English in other countries like America, Australia and England.
COMMUNAL VALUES
Every society sets its standards of acceptable behaviour and it values in interpersonal relationships. Africa in general and Ghana in particular place much emphasis on communal values like extended family, nuclear family, respect for the elderly, honouring traditional rulers like chiefs and elders, and the importance of dignity and proper social conduct. What one person does is seen as having an impact on his entire family, social group and community, therefore, everyone is expected to be careful, respectful, dignified and observant in every public settings and every aspect of life. There is not much appreciation and acceptance of the extreme sense of personal independence that westerners hold so dear. An attitude of "I don’t care what others think; I will do it my way" is judged as selfish, socially deficient and destructive. Everything is to be done by consensus-agreement after much discussion.
There is every deep sense of doing things in a formal, proper way. This means that too much informality, especially in public settings is not appreciated. For example, Americans tend to value informality, relaxed situations and interactions. However in Ghana, proper, respectful conduct is expected, especially from those who are in the present of people who are older than them. For example, if you approach a group of people with the intention of speaking to only one of the group about something, you must first take time to greet the entire group before asking permission to speak to the one person. To walk up to a group and speak directly to one person only without first greeting the entire group is considered very rude. This sense of formality and concern for public conduct is also seen in the fact that eating and drinking during meetings, church services, prayer times, etc., is not acceptable, neither is chewing gum. The general rule is: "Do not eat or drink in any gathering unless you are offered something by the host.
This sense of respect and formality is also seen in the custom of removing sandals, caps before entering shrines, chiefs palace etc. ( this includes flip flops).Also, when you are entering someone’s room(especially bedroom or private office), you should knock on the door or say "knocking" before entering, even if the person has already told you to come in. This evidences a respectful, careful attitude. Always remember to be cautious, respectful, and observant so as not to be offensive. This is especially true when you are in the presence of authorities, elderly persons and in public settings.
SPIRITUAL VALUES
Religion is very basic in everyone’s life in Ghana, and the spiritual side of life is regarded as the most important. Everything is seen through a grid of spiritual values and realities. This provides for a very receptive atmosphere and positive climate for spiritual work and interaction, however, as in all cases, takes time to listen and learn.
BASIC RULES OF ETIQUETTE IN GHANA
The following are some of the basic rules of social conduct in Ghana. Ghanaians are very tolerant and forgiving, especially with foreigners, and will often not point out mistakes. However, repeated errors and offences will create an uncomfortable atmosphere with negative results. Just remember the old adage: when in Rome, do as the Romans do.
1. Learn the uses of the right and left hands. Eat and greet with the right hand only. Do not give or receive anything with the left hand. Above all, do not dip your left hand into a dish of food shared with others or take the Lord's super with the left hand. Remember that the use of the left hand is considered disrespectful in most settings.
2. When eating and someone comes, always offer them some food or invite them to join you. When you are so invited, you may decline respectfully or join as you wish, but make sure you wash your right hand before joining. When served food, never refuse. Eat at least some .Make only favourable comments about food. When you are asked what you would like to eat, feel free to make suggestions within limits of availability. Be careful of facial expressions or comments about food, as this is a sensitive area. Always share, and always be appreciative and willing to join in.
3. Greetings are important. Always greet and respond to greetings properly. Whenever you pass a group of people, especially elderly ones, always give them a greeting. To fail to greet is considered an insult, and not easily overlooked. When you walk up to a group of people, always speak a greeting and shake hands if possible. Time is always made for greeting and it is not seen as an interference or waste of time.
4. Be careful with humour and teasing. Ghanaians love to laugh and have fun, but humour is usually non bi-cultural, that is, it does not cross cultural boundaries easily.
What is funny in one language may be insulting in another. Teasing, especially, can be misunderstood. Do not attempt jokes unless you catch on the style of humour. Do not compare people to animals (cute as a monkey, "dirty as a pig,"etc.).
5. Private matters may be "not so private”. Your physical size, marital status, etc., may prove to be enticing topics of conversation, so do not "wear your feelings on your shoulder." Do not be overly sensitive to personal remarks made about you or to you. For example to be called "fat" is a complement. They are probably not meant in an insulting way. However you should be very careful about making any comments about anyone else.
6. Showing affection in public between men and women is not acceptable, even husbands and wives. Men may hold hands (no sexual implications) or even hug, but male/female relationships are much more strictly controlled. Hugging is not commonly done except by very dear friends, especially between men and women. For example, American insistence on hugging is often very embarrassing to many Ghanaians.
7. Be careful in taking photos. Always ask permission and do not let your zeal for photos become a distraction or disturbance, especially in church services or public gatherings.
8. Always use tittles of respect when addressing someone. Anyone older than yourself must be addressed as "brother" or "sister" at the very least. You will hear terms like "senior brother, elder, mother, father, uncle, auntie, "etc. Elderly people should be addressed with tittles of respect like "father, mother, grandfather", etc.
9. Be very careful of words like "fool, stupid, crazy" etc. Avoid judgements, strongly worded language, for many words have different meanings here. Do not take offence when certain terms are used that normally are considered profanity in your home country. Sexuality is not a topic treated in public easily unless you are conversant with the culture, so be careful on delicate issues.
10. Do not shout or display loud, boisterous behaviour. Shouting is considered in poor taste, especially for women. Whenever you are in public, be cautious and careful, normally exhibiting a quiet, friendly attitude. It is not considered polite to eat while standing or walking in a public place.
11. Women must be ready to play a submissive role in everything. Especially in northern Ghana.
They are expected to be quiet, supportive and respectful at all times. If a woman is in a teaching position, she is to be dignified and moderate in how she speaks and conduct herself. A woman should not publicly criticise a man, nor should a wife behave as an equal to her husband. This is difficult for western women at times, but it is something closely monitored by local people. We are bound to give the best impression and influence we can, therefore, we must accept the social roles as they are defined by the culture. A woman who behaves as a man will not be respected, or positively regarded.
12. Do not be out in public places late at night. Always stay with brethren or your group. If you like jogging or walking, do it in the daytime.
13. Dress modestly and neatly. Women must not wear tight or revealing clothing, even when exercising; women must not dress like men or wear any tank tops, tube tops, halters, or shorts, especially in the Islamic environment of the northern Ghana. Men should not go without a shirt; you should pay attention to grooming and neatness, for that has a strong reflection on your character. Even when indoors, dress modestly and be concern about neatness and public appearance.
14. It is not acceptable to wear sandals or flip-flops into someone’s room. Remove them at the door. Shoes may be worn inside, but it is not acceptable to put your feet upon furniture or sit in a way that shows the bottoms of your shoes or feet to them in the room. Keep your feet on the door. You must always remove shoes of all kinds when greeting a chief. You should not sit in a way that would show the bottoms of your feet to a chiefs or elderly.
15. If someone washes your clothing for you, do not include your underwear. That is considered your own responsibility, and washing others” undergarments is not an accepted practice. You must be prepared to wash your own clothing by hand, especially women. Washing machines are not common, usually find with the missionaries.
16. You must receive requests from people about any number of things. Listen politely; do not commit yourself (“maybe” means yes), unless you are seriously going to follow through and provide what has been requested or at least part of it. If you wish to give something to someone, do so privately, not in the presence of others. Give out compliments to groups, not singling out individuals for compliments in the presence of others.
1 families do not serve volunteers separate exotic cuisine.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
Lodging and food are supplied with the placement. Weekend traveling and sight-seeing, however, are on your own, and expenses are not covered under the programme fee.
Please bring with you any special food that you need. It may not be possible to find them when you are in Ghana, away from city centers.
If you are on a special diet, have allergies or take special medications, please make sure this is known to both the R.V.O staffs and the host family; be prepared to find that your preferences or needs may not be available. Bring your medications with you!!! Inquire about matters such as allergies and special diets, before coming, and bring any special foods you will need.
EXPECTATIONS
Arriving in West Africa as volunteer worker, being a ‘shining example’ for all humankind, you may be expecting to change the world. Although the work you contribute will be invaluable, it is the cumulative effort of many volunteers like you that will truly make a difference, bit by bit. Do not feel bad if you do not single-handedly change the world - you are an indispensable part of the foundation that is being built.
The deep and comprehensive knowledge you will gain of Ghana just by looking and listening will be of great use and later life, raising awareness and understanding of the developing world among your friends and family.
PASSPORT / VISA / ARRIVAL
Volunteers must apply for and receive a visa to Ghana before they leave for their trip. Visas could be apply from any Ghanaian embassy in your country .There are many services which will arrange for your visa for an additional fee, or you can apply directly to the Ghanaian embassy. Our volunteers join our programme on a tourist visa basis. R.V.O does not manage long term or working visa for volunteers; these are not required for our programmes.
VISA EXTENSIONS
A tourist visa extension can be obtained at the Department of Immigration in Kumasi, Accra, Sunyani, Cape Coast, Koforidua and Tamale.
(Office working hours: Monday - Friday: 8:30am - 3:00pm)
You must pay for your visa extension.
SAFETY IN GHANA
Ghana is the safest country in West Africa regarding crime. You are probably safer walking in the streets here than you are at home. Ghana is a peaceful country. Most of the people are friendly, warm and helpful. However, to make your stay even safer and more comfortable, R.V.O has developed certain guidelines. These guidelines were developed with your safety in mind, so please follow the guidelines for a safe and exciting trip. Please remember that every civil society has some unsociable elements. Ghana is no exception in this.
Please do not walk alone after dark. In case of emergencies, call your host family, the project leader, or the R.V.O staff.
Please do not take alcoholic drinks with other local people at a restaurant.
Please do not join political demonstrations, discussions and groups.
SAFETY IS OUR PRIORITY
In order to help our volunteers in the field or to find out their situations R.V.O has developed a “regular field visit programme”. Under this plan our staff visits or call volunteer every 7-15 days. In case of sickness or emergency, R.V.O is ready to help volunteers 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Please call us on our telephone number, and we will be with you as soon as possible.
MEDICAL INFORMATION
The weather is hot and humid and slows everything down. It does rain frequently in Ghana during the period between June and September. Don’t expect to achieve as much in a day, as even small efforts tire you out and over-exertion can make you ill.
Be careful of sunburn. Tropical sun in extremely strong and can burn you very quickly. Always remember to wear sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat.
Watch out for traffic; Ghanaian road manners leave to be desired.
Don’t swim in freshwater lakes and estuaries. You can catch Schistomiasis (also known as Bilharzias). It is a parasite that bores into your foot and lives in your intestines. Also on the coast, watch out for dangerous rip - tides and strong currents. There can be sharks sometimes as well. If in doubt ask the locals if it is safe to swim.
We recommend you ask your medical doctor for advice about vaccinations. If you have any sort of allergy please let us know in the beginning of the program so that we can manage the appropriate setting according to your health condition.
Travel Guides for Ghana
The Bradt Travel Guide and Lonely Planet Guide offer carefully researched and detailed advice on both Ghana and other desitinations in West Africa. They are ideal for any traveller going to Ghana and includes detailed descriptions and illustrations of the region's wildlife, detailed maps and town plans, and boxes on cultural subjects ranging from mosque architecture to traditional festivals.
You can also visit Ghanaweb or Ghana today for more info on Ghana
ABOUT GHANA 
Independent from Britain since 1957, Ghana is one of five African nations along the northern coastline of the Gulf of Guinea. It is bordered on the west by Cote d’Ivoire, on the north by Burkina Faso, and on the east by Togo. The country consists mostly of low-lying savannah regions. Ghana is a tropical country, with moderate temperatures, averaging 21-32 C, and sunshine and constant breezes. There are two rainy seasons, from march-July and from September-October. August is a short dry spell and a longer one is between mid-October-March. The south of the country experiences the heaviest rainfall during September. The population is a mosaic of ethnic groups and religions. The majority of ethnic groups are the Ashanti, the Ewe, the Ga-Adangbe, the Mole-Dagbani, the Guan and the Gurma, with Christian (43%), Animists (38%) and 12% are Muslims.
CULTURE AND CULTURAL SHOCK.
There are 52 major languages and hundreds of dialects in Ghana. Each language is very complex and adequate in its particular setting. Many Ghanaians speak several different languages, demonstrating a linguistic skill that is totally unknown to most westerners. You will do well to attempt to learn as much of the local languages as you can. Ghanaians are very encouraging of this and feel honoured when you show this level of respect and concern. You will find that the English spoken in Ghana is quiet different in tone, pronunciation and vocabulary from English in other countries like America, Australia and England.