Ghana
The Gateway to West Africa — warm, welcoming, and ready for your return.
Capital
Accra
Overview
Ghana is the most popular destination for African diaspora returnees — stable democracy, English-speaking, and home to the Year of Return initiative. Accra pulses with energy, creativity, and a growing tech scene, while the coast, forests, and north offer extraordinary diversity.
Quick Facts
Population
33 million
Languages
English (official), Twi, Ga, Ewe, Hausa
Currency
Ghanaian Cedi (GHS)
Timezone
GMT+0
Climate
Tropical — two rainy seasons (Apr–Jun, Sep–Nov)
Visa on Arrival
Yes — available
Diaspora Programme
Right of Abode / Joseph Project
Tourist Attractions
Where History Meets Hospitality
Ghana's tourism scene is anchored by its powerful history and warm people. Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle are UNESCO World Heritage Sites that draw diaspora visitors seeking to connect with their ancestral past. Kakum National Park offers canopy walks above the rainforest, while Mole National Park in the north is Ghana's premier wildlife destination with elephants and antelopes. Accra's vibrant arts scene, Labadi Beach, and the Makola Market round out an unforgettable experience.
Lodging & Hotels
From Boutique to World-Class
Accra has seen a hotel boom in recent years. The Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City and Marriott Accra anchor the luxury tier, while boutique properties like Nkran Hotel and Alisa Hotel offer character and comfort. Serviced apartments are popular with returnees — Villagio Vista and Trasacco Valley offer furnished units with security and amenities. Outside Accra, eco-lodges near Kakum and guesthouses in Cape Coast provide authentic stays.
Housing & Real Estate
A Growing Real Estate Market
Accra's real estate market is one of West Africa's most dynamic. East Legon, Airport Residential, and Cantonments are the premium neighbourhoods favoured by returnees and expats — gated communities with 24/7 security, modern amenities, and proximity to international schools. Tema and Spintex offer more affordable options with good infrastructure. Rents range from $500/month for a basic apartment to $3,000+ for a furnished villa. Foreigners can lease land for up to 50 years.
Healthcare
Improving Infrastructure, Private Options
Ghana's healthcare system has improved significantly. The Korle Bu Teaching Hospital is the largest public hospital in West Africa. For returnees, private facilities like Nyaho Medical Centre, Trust Hospital, and the 37 Military Hospital offer international-standard care. Health insurance is available through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and private providers. Pharmacies are widely available in urban areas. Medical tourism from the diaspora is growing.
Food & Cuisine
Bold Flavours, Communal Tables
Ghanaian cuisine is rich, hearty, and deeply communal. Jollof rice (Ghana's version is fiercely defended), fufu with light soup, banku and tilapia, and kelewele (spiced fried plantain) are staples. Accra's food scene has exploded — from chop bars serving authentic local food to upscale restaurants like Buka and Santoku. The Osu Night Market and Makola Market are essential food experiences. Street food culture is vibrant and safe in most urban areas.
Immigration & Visas
Welcoming the Diaspora Home
Ghana has one of Africa's most diaspora-friendly immigration frameworks. Citizens of ECOWAS countries can enter visa-free. Most other nationalities receive a visa on arrival or can apply online. The Right of Abode allows people of African descent to live and work in Ghana indefinitely — a landmark policy. The Joseph Project facilitates diaspora return. Ghana also offers investor visas and residence permits for those establishing businesses.
Transportation
Getting Around Accra and Beyond
Kotoka International Airport (ACC) is West Africa's busiest hub with direct flights from the US, UK, and Europe. Within Accra, ride-hailing apps (Bolt, Uber) are widely used and affordable. Trotros (minibuses) are the local transit backbone — cheap but crowded. Inter-city travel is served by VIP and STC bus lines. Accra's traffic is notorious — plan accordingly. Car rental is available; driving is on the right.
Safety & Security
One of Africa's Safest Countries
Ghana consistently ranks as one of Africa's safest and most politically stable countries. Violent crime against foreigners is rare. Petty theft and pickpocketing occur in crowded markets and tourist areas — standard urban precautions apply. Accra neighbourhoods like East Legon, Airport Residential, and Cantonments are considered very safe. The police emergency number is 191. Ghana has not experienced significant political violence in decades.
Ready to Make the Move?
Sankofa Homecoming Can Help
Our Ghana-based team provides hands-on relocation support across the continent. From housing to community integration — we've done this before.