Navigating Coffee Culture An Expats Guide to Ghana
Coffee enthusiasts, pack your bags and head to Ghana. With a rich history of coffee production and deeply ingrained cultural significance, Ghana is a must-visit destination for coffee lovers seeking an authentic African experience. Whether you’re a seasoned expat or new to Ghana, our definitive guide navigates you through the finest coffee scenes and customs in this captivating country.
Understanding Coffee Origins and Production in Ghana
Ghana’s distinctive coffee aroma can be traced to its historically significant coffee production roots. Ironically, the coffee bean originated from Ethiopia thousands of years ago but Ghana's proximity to the West African coastline makes the country renowned for producing high-quality coffee beans with distinct flavors and aromas.
Coffee plantations and farms stretch across certain regions in Ghana, including Asante Akyem, Wassa East, and Ellembelle-Nzema East, and more recently in the northern and southern regions. Visit the Sefwi-Wiawso coffee plantation, which, since its reopening in the late 1990s, remains a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts. Pick fresh coffee beans yourself, taste test the coffee cherries and witness Ghana's coffee production process for a unique and immersive coffee experience.
Embracing Favorite Coffee Style Drinks in Ghana
Ghana's coffee scene trips delightfully to the tongue and awakens the senses with an array of coffee styles and blends. The unique aroma, strength, and taste of coffee in Ghana result from traditional brew methods, such as boiling the coffee for hours in a clay pot. These traditional brews, which originated from Ghanaian ancestors, remain popular, with many expats also preferring them to modern espresso or filter coffee.
Some popular coffee style drinks enjoyed by expats in Ghana include the “bu-bu du” - a traditional brew prepared by boiling partially roasted beans in a pot made of dried clay, served with sugar or honey. Expats can also enjoy the delectable “palo” or “palm wine coffee”, a favorite blend made from fermented palm wine, roasted coffee beans and often flavored with ginger or nutmeg.
Embracing Coffee Drinking Customs and Traditions in Ghana
Apart from the traditional brews, Ghana's coffee culture is woven into the fabric of daily life and social interactions; it's a means of socializing and connection among locals, and expats are welcomed to embrace these customs.
One of Ghana's coffee customs is the tradition of sharing coffee with loved ones or friends. Consuming and sharing coffee fosters unity, socialization, and communal bonding. This olden tradition remains as relevant today, and neighbors and families continue to share coffee to signify love, friendship, or celebration. Expats can also experience these traditions in Ghana's coffee shops, where they can meet locals, share coffee, and immerse themselves in Ghana's coffee culture.
Conclusion: Immersing Yourself in Ghana's Coffee Culture
Coffee is more than just a beverage in Ghana; it’s a significant traditional drink and deeply ingrained social custom, crucial for connecting with locals and appreciating the unique culture of Ghana. Whether you're a seasoned coffee enthusiast or a novice, Ghana’s coffee scene is a delightful and unforgettable experience, providing a gateway to the country's captivating traditions and customs. Visit the coffee plantations, sample traditional brews and blend styles, and embrace Ghana's coffee culture to connect personally with this community of coffee-loving enthusiasts.
Additional Notes
We recommend visiting the MangoM by JILAFFe and Café Grind CoffeeBar in Accra, serving delicious coffee blends and presenting a lively environment for socializing and meeting locals. Expats can also learn about coffee production, roasting techniques, and the history of coffee in Ghana at the Elmina Cocoa Sister, a cooperative founded by Akua T. Duku, a Ghanaian woman, providing education and opportunities for women in the coffee industry.
Embark on a coffee adventure that's unique, immersive, and culturally enriching. The Ghana coffee culture, coupled with the country's welcoming hospitality, makes this experience unforgettable.