Accra is the gateway to Ghana and probably the most vibrant region in Ghana. The Greater Accra Region is the most densely populated administrative capital as it contains the two great metropolitan areas of Accra and Tema. Both make up Ghana’s major industrial and commercial centres, Accra is for business whilst Tema and its shipping ports provide vital access to the world. Both these areas are served by Kotoka International Airport which is located about 12km from the centre of Accra.
How long has Accra been Ghana’s capital city?
Accra became the capital of Ghana in 1877, the decision was made after the second Anglo-Asante War, (fight between the British and the Ashanti’s. Before this time Cape Coast was the capital city. An interesting fact about the decision to make Accra the capital was also that Accra had a drier climate relative to Cape Coast.
What is Accra like today
Accra contains the impressive public buildings which reflect its transition from a 19th century suburb of Victoriasborg to the modern metropolis it is today. Spreading along the Atlantic coast, the city provides a vibrant mix of modern and traditional catering for the vast mix of residents who swam to Accra for the multicultural feel of a large buzzing modern West African city. From traditional markets in Madina to the luxury tree lined villas in the Cantonments. Accra is always full of things to impress absorbing museums and impressive public monuments, high rise office buildings to beaches. Accra is the modern Wakanda located in the West of Africa (Marvel’s Black Panther movie, Wakanda is a fictional country in Africa ).
Where the Greater Accra Region is located in Ghana
What is Accra famous for?
Accra is famous and known for a number of things which are the following 10 places and sights. Among the highlights of Accra are the;
- The National Museum, with its splendid display of exhibits that reflect the heritage of Ghana from prehistoric times to modern times,
- The National Theatre with its distinctive modern architecture,
- The Centre for National Culture,
- Independence Square or Black Star Square – Kwame Nkrumah commissioned the construction of the square to celebrate the nation’s independence
- The Independence Arch (located in Independence Square)
- Black Star Gate, (located in Independence Square)
- Golden Jubilee House, (aka Flagstaff house) this is the Presidential palace in Accra
- The Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum,
- The fishing port at James Town
- Makola Market
Book a city tour of Accra
Other impressive cityscapes just to drive by and look at in Accra
The University of Ghana at Legon which is just 14km north of Accra, and has a set of distinctive buildings are set amongst elegant tree-lined gardens that are popular with students and visitors alike.The Accra International Conference Centre has played host to many international gatherings.
Tema, on the other hand, was once a new town but has known grown to be noted as extension of Accra 30km from central Accra. Tema is Ghana’s foremost commercial port. Tema over the years has become the main residential area for many people who work in Accra. Tema is split into communities starting from 1 through to 20. The Spintex road is the main road into Accra from Tema which can get very busy. This is where Google maps works really well which allows you to avoid the traffic, please note you need an all terrain car if you are going to use a diversion sometimes. Trust me I have been stuck before under estimating the road.
Beaches in the Greater Accra area and beyond
The beaches of the Atlantic coast are popular for Accra residents and those visiting the country . Labadi Pleasure Beach and Kokrobite Beach, just 25km west of Accra, are particularly popular at weekends. If you want somewhere a little quieter then you should try Bojo beach. If you want some time out of Accra then travel further along the coast is Ada and the estuary of the great River Volta. Here the fine beaches of the estuary and the Atlantic coast provide popular resort areas. Watersports and river trips make this a great place to relax, while the waters off the coast teem with game fish.
Find out more about the top 11 beaches to visit in Ghana here
If you are planning of travelling to Accra in Ghana there daily flights to Accra from a range of airlines (Covid restrictions permitting) why not check out the latest fight rates and fares here.
Author: Courage Ahiati
Courage Ahiati is a budding writer with interest in biographies, satire, political fiction and travel-blogging. He has to his credit, numerous articles and stories published in both print and electronic media in Ghana.