Ghana is located in west Africa, within the tropics. There are two seasons: Rainy and Dry. The Dry season begins in August and ends in February. Accra is the capital. Ghana gained its independence from British colonial rule on March 6, 1957. Ghana is a stabilizing force in West Africa and is a leader in democratization.

The population is 19,533,560 (2000 estimate). English is the official languages but is used only in urban areas by government and business. The other languages are Akan, Moshi-Dagomba, Hausa, Ewe, and Ga. 65% of the population is literate. 24% of the population is Christian.

The primary exports are gold, cocoa, timber, tuna, bauxite, aluminum, manganese ore, diamonds and the primary imports are capital equipment, petroleum, foodstuffs.