Ghana's Ga Language

Explore the vibrant Ga language spoken in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. Discover its history, culture, and unique features.

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Ga is the predominant language of the Ga people, for whom the country "Ghana" is named.

View of the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park (1995) by Erik B. AndersonWorld Monuments Fund

A Kwa Language

Ga is a Kwa language spoken by the Ga people of Ghana. It is spoken by about 600,000 to 745,000 people.

Adinkra cloth (1825) by UnknownWorld Monuments Fund

A Niger-Congo Language

The Kwa group exists in the Niger-Congo language family. Kwa's close relationship to Adangme highlights its place within this broader linguistic context.

Ga is a tonal language with a complex grammar system. Its vocabulary is rich and diverse, with many words borrowed from Akan and English. The language is used in radio broadcasting in Ghana.

Some dialects of Ga include:
* Accra Ga: Spoken in the capital city of Accra
* Osu Ga: Spoken in the Osu area of Accra
* Labadi Ga: Spoken in the Labadi area of Accra
* Teshie Ga: Spoken in the Teshie area of Accra.

Yaa Tiwaa with their family and GMMB driver, Akwasi Amankwaa, at the Adako Gyaakye Shrine. by Eric GyamfiWorld Monuments Fund

Common Ga Surnames

Explore a selection of common surnames among the Ga people of Ghana, reflecting their rich cultural heritage. These names offer a glimpse into the community's history and identity. 

Common Ga family surnames are: Owoo, Lartey, Nortey, Aryee, Lamptey, Tetteh, Ankrah, Tetteyfio, Laryea, Ayitey, Okine, Bortey, Quarshie, Quaye, Quaynor, Ashong, Kotei, Clottey, Nai, Sowah, Odoi, Maale, Ako, Adjetey, Annang, Yemoh, and Abbey.

Coxcombs, maize and morning glories (1568-1615)Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art

The Ga Maize Plant

The maize plant, or *Abele*, holds cultural significance for the Ga people. Its importance reflects in their traditions and daily life. Ga Traditional food is Kenkey made from fermented corn dough. 

Arrival of King Opoku Ware II at His Silver Jubilee (1995) by Carol Beckwith & Angela FisherAfrican Ceremonies

Ga Greeting: Aatuu

In the Ga language of Ghana, "Aatuu" means "Welcome." Learn more about this vibrant language and its rich culture.

Credits: Story

Amani Soyinka contributed to this story.

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