Ghana at a Glance
Though previously known as the Gold Coast, for the near 40 percent of Ghana's population living on less than $1 a day, the name of riches has little resonance. Following its independence from Britain in 1957 it was one of the wealthiest countries in Africa, producing one tenth of the world's gold and exporting large amounts of cocoa.
Ghana has since suffered food shortages, coups and corruption, which have led to more than twenty-five years of economic decline. As a result, the West African country is dependent upon subsistence agriculture, has limited resources and is heavily indebted.
Since 1993, constitutional reform allowed for new parties to form, rendering the country more stable. Freedom of speech and free press have further supported the country's democracy, now a model for political and economic reform throughout the continent.
Despite political successes, the country continues to remain impoverished, ranked 138 of 177 countries by the UN. Important strives forward have been made however—the number of people living in poverty reduced by 14 per cent in the 1990s. Serious challenges remain, particularly among groups whose poverty has deepened in recent years, most notably women, farmers and the population of the country's northern region. Poor health, chronic food insecurity and a lack of safe water and sanitation are common among these groups.
EWB is one of many development organisations working in Ghana as the country's political stability is conducive to long-term development projects.
Currently four EWB volunteers are working in Ghana:
- Agriculture: Christian Beaudrie is working in the northern region in partnership with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to improve yields and food security. Learn more about Christian's work »
- Agro-Processing: EWB volunteer Monica Rucki is increasing access to the multifunctional platform, an appropriate source of rural energy.
Learn more about Monica's work » - Water and Sanitation: Luke Brown is working in northern Ghana to improve water and sanitation access.
Learn more about Luke's work »
(Information from UNDP, HDI, CIDA and WaterAid)
