Accra
Capital and port of Ghana; population (2002 est) 1,605,400. It is an important political, commercial, and administrative centre. The port trades in cacao, gold, diamonds, and timber; the leading industries are vehicle assembly, textiles, plastics, and pharmaceuticals; other industries include light engineering,
brewing, and tobacco and food processing. Scrap metal is a major import and is the basis of local engineering businesses. Accra is connected by rail to Tema which serves as its deepwater port.
History
The city grew in the 19th century around three fortified posts (the Dutch Fort Ussher, Danish Fort Christiansborg, and British Fort James) founded by European traders in the 17th century. Accra became the capital of the British colony of Gold Coast in 1876. Development was hindered for many years by lack of natural harbour facilities, but during the 1960s the port and town of Tema was built 30 km/19 mi east of Accra.
Features Osu (Christiansborg) Castle (17th century) is the presidential residence. The National Museum of Ghana is in Accra, and the University of Ghana is at nearby Legon. Accra is the birthplace of William Boyd, British novelist. |
