_________________________________________________________________________
Ghana is, for the most part, a modern and progressive country and a bit of common sense and basic respect for local laws and customs should be all you need for a safe and enjoyable stay. There are a few things to be aware of, however, in order to minimise the risk of things going awry.Drugs
Drugs offences are taken very seriously in Ghana, in part due to the country's growing drug problem. Bail is not granted for those caught with drugs of any kind (including class C drugs) and being in possession of even small amounts of marijuana can result in prison sentences of up to five years. Class A drugs such as cocaine and heroin carry far lengthier gaol terms.LGBT
hom*osexuality is illegal in Ghana and as a result there is no open gay scene in Accra. Many Ghanaians do not accept that hom*osexuality even exists so same sex couples should exercise discretion in public and when making hotel bookings.Age restrictions
The age of consent for sex is
16.
For smoking, drinking, buying alcohol and driving
, the minimum age is
18.
Photography
It is prohibited to take photographs of
military installations, airports or other sensitive sites even where this is not clearly marked. Photographers should always seek permission to photograph a building where there are guards on duty. If there is no guard or signage, caution should still be exercised. Beware of being scammed by phony officials who try to charge fees for tourists to photograph places of interest.
Customs
Without paying import duties, visitors to Ghana can bring in:
• up to 200 cigarettes,
• 50 cigars or 1lb of tobacco
• 250ml of spirits or wine
• 250ml of perfume
Those wishing to export handicrafts and antiques not exempt from duties must obtain a certificate from the Museums and Monuments Board; these are available from the main craft centre or the National Museum.
Banned imports into Ghana include animals, firearms and ammunition and explosives.Reporting a lost passport
It's advisable to carry a photocopy of your passport with you at all times and to store your passport somewhere safe. In you do lose your passport, report the loss to the nearest police station and make sure to get a copy of the police report. Report the incident to the People Services and the Ghana Immigration Service and include a copy of the police report. Contact your local embassy to obtain a new passport - you may need the police report for this as well.
National Identification Card
NOTE: a new law is in place that requires all permanent resident foreign nationals to have a national identity card issued by the National Identification Authority. It costs $120. This also includes refugees.
FAQs
Article 11 (3) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana defines Customary Law as "rules of law which are by custom applicable to particular communities in Ghana." Customary marriage has its own essential features for its validity.
What can I bring into Ghana? ›
The following may be imported free of duty:
37.5 centiliters (375ml) of potable and perfumed spirits. Wine not exceeding 75 centiliters (750ml). Cigarettes, cheroots, cigars, tobacco and snuff, not exceeding in all, one pound i.e. 0.5kg in weight. Items in excess of the above will be subject to duties and taxes.
What is the legal drinking age in Accra? ›
Africa. The most common minimum age to purchase alcohol in Africa is 18.
What is Ghana common law? ›
Ghanaian common law comprises three species of law, the English common law, (which is a body of law that developed through ―case law‖ or cases decided by judges); the Doctrines of Equity (which refer to the body of rules that were developed by the Court of Chancery in the 15th century to administer justice to parties ...
What is local customary law? ›
What Is Customary Law? Customary law is a set of customs, practices and beliefs that are accepted as obligatory rules of conduct by indigenous peoples and local communities. Customary law forms an intrinsic part of their social and economic systems and way of life.
Is there a dress code in Ghana? ›
Understanding Cultural and Religious Dress Codes
Women should consider wearing long skirts or dresses that cover their knees, and men should opt for long pants. It's essential to be aware of cultural sensitivities and dress respectfully. Avoid wearing revealing clothing or clothing that displays offensive imagery.
What is the alcohol limit in Ghana? ›
At present, the current BAC limit for motorists in Ghana, as set by the Road Traffic Act 2004 (Act 683), is 0.08% (80mg/dl), which is high by international best practices.
Is alcohol legal in Ghana? ›
The age of consent for sex is 16. For smoking, drinking, buying alcohol and driving, the minimum age is 18. It is prohibited to take photographs of military installations, airports or other sensitive sites even where this is not clearly marked.
Which country has the highest drinking age in the world? ›
The highest legal drinking age in the world is found in Eritrea – 25 years. This sets a top benchmark, showing extreme caution towards the potentially harmful effects of alcohol on individuals and their societies.
What is the rule of customary? ›
Customary law refers to the laws which are derived from the customs of the people. While there is no universal definition for it, attempts have been made to decipher its nature. It has been described as a body of customs which regulates the kinds of relationships between members of a community in a traditional setting.
Typically performed following a traditional wedding, known as a Customary marriage, this ceremony involves the families conducting rituals aligned with their respective tribes and traditions. A marriage under Ordinance is secular in nature but may incorporate religious elements based on the couple's chosen sect.
What is statutory law in Ghana? ›
Statutes are the form of law created by the supreme legislative body in Ghana.
Can you marry your cousin in Ghana? ›
People are not allow to marry within their lineages, or for the Akan, their wider clan groups. There is a preference, however, for marriage between cross-cousins (children of a brother and sister). The groom's family is expected to pay a bride-price.
