Survival Guide to Ghana

 

Hello again,

Living in Ghana is not something you fully understand by reading about it. You feel it in the heat, in the colors, in the traffic, in the music, and in the way people smile at you for no reason. Every day brings a new surprise. Sometimes you learn something the easy way, sometimes the hard way.

This guide is a small collection of things I learned while living and volunteering here. Some are practical, some are funny, some are confusing, and some changed the way I see life. 

Welcome to Ghana. It will challenge you, surprise you and teach you.

Here we go . . .

1. Water is everything here

Water is not just water in Ghana. It keeps your energy up, protects you from the heat, and saves you from feeling dizzy. If you don’t carry a bottle with you, even the city gets tired before you do. Drinking water is not a choice here — it is basic survival.

2. People dress in bright colors and always smile

Colors are part of daily life in Ghana. People smile at you even when they don’t know you. A small smile can open doors, make conversations easier, and help you connect. Here, smiling is not a habit. It is a lifestyle.

3. Polygamy exists and it’s something you should know before coming

Polygamy is part of society in Ghana. It might surprise you at first, but it is important to understand rather than judge. Respecting local culture helps you avoid misunderstandings and makes your experience smoother.Polygamy is not common in every part of Ghana. It is mostly practiced in the northern regions, where many communities are Muslim and where polygamy has cultural and religious roots. In the south, especially in the big cities, most families follow a monogamous lifestyle. Understanding this difference will help you avoid generalizations and respect the diversity of Ghanaian society.

 4. Avoid drama. If you fall into one, just laugh and keep going

Drama can appear anywhere, but don’t get too involved. And if you already did, don’t worry.  nothing is as serious as it feels. Laugh a little, breathe, and continue your day. The sun and the people make everything lighter.

5. Your fellow volunteers are more important than you think

Volunteering in Ghana can be both challenging and beautiful. This is why your volunteer friends are so valuable. Sometimes they are the ones who keep you grounded. I was very lucky. I met people who were on the same frequency as me, and the small villages of Ghana felt like a tiny Disneyland because of them.

6. Power cuts are part of life

Electricity may disappear without warning. Keep your power bank charged, your phone on battery saver, and your patience strong.

7. Animals are your new neighbors 

Goats, chickens, and sometimes cows walk freely around the streets. Don’t be surprised if a goat stares at you like it knows your secrets.

8. The traffic is chaotic

Traffic in Ghana is wild. When you travel by tuk-tuk, you may think you’re about to die several times. Don’t panic. You’ll get used to it faster than you expect.

9. People dance everywhere and love music

Don’t worry about looking funny. Just join the rhythm. Music is part of life here, and people dance like the world is cheering for them.

10. Kids will call you “S’iliminga”

In may regions, children call foreigners “S’iliminga,” which means “white person.” At first it may feel strange or annoying, but give it time. You’ll get used to it.

11. Women build entire communities here

Women carry families, businesses, and neighborhoods on their shoulders. The saying “women are each other’s home” truly comes alive in Ghana.

12. Time works differently

Internal meetings usually start late, but meetings between different institutions often begin on time. Observe the rhythm around you and adjust. Ghana teaches patience in its own way.

13. Try street food

Be open to street food. Ghana has a rich and flavorful kitchen. I didn’t fall in love with it, but many volunteers absolutely adore it.