After about 23 hours of total travel time, I arrived in Ghana last Thursday. We had a layover in Amsterdam which was delayed by some people pressing a conspicuous security door button, but we made it here. We then were picked up at Kotoka International Airport and driven by tro-tro’s (the Ghanaian minivan taxis) to the University of Ghana at Legon. Right away we were given dinner and then we went to bed and were pretty much exhausted.
The next morning we had a lecture introducing us to the study abroad staff that would be with us for a three week orientation prior to school starting in late August. I have been amazed at the friendliness of the Ghanaians and the sense of community here. They believe strongly in national and human family. Everywhere you go they welcome you with the welcome phrase “Akwaaba” (they know I am a foreigner right away).
Saturday we went into the city of Accra. We traveled to a market where we purchased things we might need for our stay. The market was very crowded with several shops lined against each other offering foods, kitchenware, clothing and other items. The means of purchase here is often by bargaining as Ghanaians debate prices outside their businesses.
I talked to a clothing seller who sells at the market and he said that he buys material, has the shirt sewn by another business, and then adds value to the shirt with his own designs. I bought one for the equivalent of about $6. He gets much business from tourists who pass around his name and who give their business cards to him.
Yesterday we went as a group to church. About 20 or more went to a church near campus and the pastor invited one from the group to speak about the group—I stepped up and offered our thanks to them for inviting us and hosting us for those who want to continue attending. In Ghana, Christianity is more on display than in the US and it is widely visible in the public realm. You might see phrases like “Jesus Power” or “God’s grace” on the tro-tro taxis. It’s fun.
Today we had a series of lectures in many areas like archaeology, politics, and history to give us background on University of Ghana academics. The political science professor mentioned that World Bank and IMF programs have not shown evidence of aiding Ghana, but I don’t know yet if that is the majority opinion.
Well, that’s all so far and I will post soon with more interesting stories and perspectives…
4 comments:
I'm so glad you're updating your blog. I can picture you looking at everything and utilizing all your senses. Take it all in baby! That's the beauty of traveling and experiencing culture. Good work on being so descriptive. Looking forward to your next blog...
Hi Mike, this is Huan. James is another name I tell people who have repeated problems pronouncing my name to call me. But you are NOT one of these person. Anyway, I look forward to more of your entries. I am impressed that you were able to stand a nearly day long flight. Best.
Very interesting old friend. Hope the times are treating you well there. I think it'll be fascinating for you to take a political science course from a third world perspective. Keep the info rolling. We're running out of material over here!
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