In the vast and varied landscape of western Africa, Ghana stands out for being the second most peaceful country in Sub-Saharan Africa, according to the 2023 Global Peace Index. A stable political situation and a steady economic growth over the past few decades have turned Ghana into a haven in West Africa. But is Ghana safe?
Like every other destination, it’s important to keep in mind the precautions and potential risks you can face when traveling or if you’re already living in the country. In this comprehensive article, we will explore safety in Ghana, the most common crimes and scams and which areas of the country you should avoid.
Be cautious of these common scams and crimes in Ghana
Ghana is generally a safe country, but tourists and expatriates should be mindful of common scams and petty crimes. Knowing about these scams can protect you from a bad or dangerous situation.
Internet Fraud (Sakawa)
In recent years, Ghana is known for internet fraud, also known as “Sakawa.” Be careful when sharing personal information online and be cautious of people promising unrealistic financial benefits. Avoid making financial transactions with strangers and opt for secure payment methods when buying items.
If you’re using cash, make sure you learn to detect fake currency, a widespread problem where Ghana is no exception.
Petty Theft and Pickpocketing
Most of the popular tourist sites in Ghana are safe, however make sure to watch your stuff and valuables carefully, especially in busy places like markets, bus stations, and tourist spots. Only bring what you really need and think about using a money belt or hidden pouch for your valuables. Try not to show off expensive items like jewelry or gadgets.
Be cautious with street beggars
Be cautious of street beggars and hawkers, especially in areas frequented by tourists. Although some of them may truly be asking for money, others may employ deceitful tactics to persuade you into purchasing their goods or giving them money. Kindly and firmly refuse and walk away to prevent any potential conflicts.
Places you should avoid in Ghana
Although Ghana is generally safe for travelers, it’s important to be aware that some regions may have increased risks due political unrest. Ghana has a much lower crime rate compared to other countries in Africa, however some parts of the country, as well as heavily populated areas in cities like Accra and Kumasi can pose a threat. You should think twice before traveling through these places:
Ghana Border Regions
Be careful or simply avoid traveling close to the border regions of Ghana, especially near Togo, Burkina Faso, and Côte d’Ivoire. There could be occasional incidents of cross-border tensions or smuggling activities in these areas.
High-Density Urban Areas
Make sure to do some research on your destination before your trip to Accra or Kumasi. Accra is known for having great and safe neighborhoods and while these major cities are usually safe for tourists, it’s important to avoid areas with higher crime rates. Stay away from unfamiliar or poorly lit neighborhoods, especially after dark.
You might want to read about the most dangerous neighborhoods in Accra, places you should definitely avoid.
Also, the Agbogbloshie bazaar in Accra is known for its high-risk nature. As interesting as it is, it’s a volatile area with different tribes residing here.
Safety Tips for Travelers and Expats
Register with Your Embassy
Make sure to register with your embassy or consulate before heading to Ghana and take note of their contact details. Your embassy can offer help in case of an emergency, such as providing evacuation services if needed. Check a list of the most important embassies and consulates in Accra.
You should also stay up to date with the requirements for a visa application in Ghana.
Stay Informed
Stay updated on local news, security alerts, and travel advisories from reliable sources like government websites or international news outlets. Be prepared to adjust your travel plans as needed based on the most recent information available.
Build Local Connections
It’s important to establish connections with local residents or expatriates as it can greatly improve your safety and offer valuable insights into navigating Ghanaian society. You can try making connections with expatriate groups, taking part in cultural events, and if you want to explore and sightsee, always hire a reliable guide for your excursions.
Always Trust Your Instincts
Always remember to trust your gut and use common sense when in new places. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to leave and ask for help from people you trust or authorities.
Considerations for Safety in Ghana
Before you begin your journey to Ghana, it is essential to remember a few key points that will help you stay safe throughout your travels or during your relocation process:
Health and Medical Care
Make sure you hire competent travel insurance that includes medical emergency coverage, such as evacuation when needed. Although big cities like Accra and Kumasi offer sufficient medical facilities and healthcare, rural areas might have limited healthcare services. It’s recommended to bring along a simple medical kit and all prescribed medications.
Malaria can be an issue in Ghana so make sure to learn how to avoid it and the natural remedies to fight mosquito bites.
It is highly recommended for tourists to consume only bottled water or other bottled beverages while in Ghana, as the tap water and ice are contaminated and not suitable for drinking. As good as they might be, some Ghanaian drinks might not be prepared in the most hygienic way, so avoid getting them from street vendors.
However, you can still enjoy thoroughly cooked hot foods, as they are safe to eat and can help prevent most infections. If you want to have ghanaian fruits, make sure they have an unbroken skin and are peeled before consuming.
It is best to avoid raw vegetables and salads due to the risk of contamination. Additionally, if any food, especially eggs, chicken, and dairy products, has been left out of the refrigerator for more than an hour, it is advisable not to consume them.
Cultural Sensitivity and respect
First and foremost it’s super important to show respect for the customs, traditions and festivals in Ghana. Make sure to learn about its cultural diversity, greetings, and social behavior to prevent unintentionally offending anyone.
Remember to dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious places, and always ask for permission before snapping photos of people.
Transportation Safety
Be careful when using public transportation, especially mini buses and taxis or alternative systems like okada and tro-tro. Choose well-known taxi companies or ridesharing services like Uber if possible.
When driving, watch out for reckless driving and always follow traffic rules, such as wearing seatbelts and follow common sense.
Is Ghana safe for women?
Ghana is a friendly country for women traveling alone, however it’s good to know that culturally, there is a lot of physical contact used for communication, which can be uncomfortable if you’re not used to it.
Female tourists may face persistent harassment and proposals from men, but most encounters are harmless. It’s important to stand your ground and assert yourself. A simple way to end harassment is to mention that you’re married and have more than one child. In Ghanaian culture, being single and childless may be seen as a sign you’re looking for a husband.
Dress conservatively. Showing too much skin can attract unwanted attention, as Ghana is a conservative country. Local women dress modestly, especially in the north where attitudes are stricter.
Safety in Ghana: Conclusions and other useful tips
When visiting Ghana, make sure to prioritize safety by staying informed, being cautious, and respecting local customs. This way, you can fully enjoy the rich cultural experiences and stunning landscapes the country has to offer while minimizing any potential risks. Also remember to stick to these tips to ensure a hassle free experience:
- Dress modestly when out in public.
- Avoid smoking in public areas, as Ghana is mostly a smoke-free country.
- Refrain from consuming large amounts of alcohol, as drunkenness is considered disrespectful.
- Mind your language and avoid using profanity. Learn these slang words if you want to fit in by using the local way of speaking.
- Do not wear camouflage clothing. Wearing military uniforms is not allowed for civilians so you might want to avoid the confusion and the police questioning you.
- Always use your right hand for greetings and other interactions, as showing the left hand is seen as disrespectful.
- Be prepared for flexible timekeeping in Ghana, as ‘I’m almost there’ may not mean what you think it does. Be patient and learn that Ghana is a differently paced country.
