Ghana Country Report

Ghana has often been cited as a bastion of stability in the historically volatile West African region, and a model for political reform on the continent. Since the end of military rule in 1992, successive elections have been held and transfers of power have been largely peaceful. Ghana has enjoyed sustained economic growth fuelled by its wealth of natural resources, and the government actively promotes foreign investment, although corruption, while less prevalent than many other African countries, is present and is an impediment to business interests and economic growth. The government is popular both domestically and internationally and does not face any serious internal or external threats to its existence. The primary threats to foreign visitors are from health hazards and road traffic accidents. Opportunistic criminal activity is a concern in Accra and other urban areas, while there is a perceived growing threat from terrorism following deadly attacks in other West African nations in early 2016. Ghana's infrastructure is adequate in major urban areas such as Accra, Kumasi and Tamale, and the main arterial routes are in reasonable condition, although infrastructure remains underdeveloped in many rural parts of the country.

Ghana has not experienced any terrorist attacks, but there is a growing threat from extremist militant groups in the region. Crime is a serious problem in the country, with the main threat to foreigners being opportunistic street crime, especially in large urban centers. Civil and labor unrest occurs occasionally, but is peaceful for the most part.

There are no safety concerns over air travel.

Road travel in Ghana is complicated by varying road conditions and poor driving standards, contributing to frequent traffic accidents.

The ports in Ghana are considered efficient.

Ghana has experienced recurrent power outages in recent years.

Internet-based fraud and scams are prevalent in Ghana, which has one of the highest internet penetration rates on the continent. Ghana has a weak defense to cyber attacks.

Flooding is common during the rainy season between May and October, especially in August and September. From January to March, Ghana experiences the northeastern Harmattan winds that blow sand and dust from the Sahara into the Gulf of Guinea.

Malaria and yellow fever are prevalent throughout Ghana. Standards of medical care and facilities in urban centers are adequate but limited outside of the capital. Access to essential health services is good across healthcare facilities. Cash payment upfront is required for all health services. Food and water safety is poor nationwide.

Ghana is politically stable, and has been free of the conflict and violence witnessed in the historically volatile West African region. Corruption levels in Ghana are lower compared to other countries in the region, but remains present in public institutions.