Stories and facts
Situated in the eastern part of the country, this region is one of the sixteen administrative regions of Ghana, bordered by Lake Volta to the east, the Bono East Region and Ashanti Region to the north, Ashanti Region to the west, and Central Region and Greater Accra Region to the south.
Geography and Hydroelectric Power
The Eastern Region, covering an expansive 19,323 square kilometers, constitutes about 8.1% of Ghana's total land area. A prominent feature of this region is the Akosombo Dam, a cornerstone of the Akosombo Hydroelectric Project, which plays a pivotal role in electricity generation. Completed in 1965, the dam boasts a height of 440 feet (134 meters) above ground level and has a substantial electric power generating capacity of 912 megawatts. The dam's three main tributaries, the Black Volta, White Volta, and Red Volta, contribute to the flow that eventually reaches the Gulf of Guinea on the Atlantic Ocean.
Education Hub
The Eastern Region takes pride in its educational institutions, with a plethora of Senior High Schools catering to a diverse student population. From Aburi Girls' Senior High School to St. Paul's Senior Secondary School, the region boasts an array of educational institutions contributing to the intellectual development of its residents.
Colleges and universities such as Kibi Presbyterian College of Education, All Nations University, and Ashesi University further enrich the educational landscape, providing avenues for higher learning and research.
Administrative Divisions
The political administration of the Eastern Region is structured through the local government system, consisting of 33 Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs). These MMDAs are presided over by elected members, ensuring efficient governance and representation at the grassroots level.
Recent district changes include the establishment of Achiase District, the division of Afram Plains District into Kwahu Afram Plains North and South, and the elevation of Akuapim South District, East Akim District, and Kwahu West Districts to Municipal status. The region continues to evolve administratively, reflecting the dynamic nature of local governance.
Economic Powerhouse
The Eastern Region's economic prowess is anchored in the Akosombo Hydroelectric Project, contributing significantly to Ghana's electricity generation. Additionally, the region engages in agrarian activities, with cocoa being a major traditional cash crop. Pineapple cultivation has emerged as a lucrative non-traditional venture, making significant contributions to both local consumption and export markets.
Cultural Festivals and Events
The Eastern Region comes alive with vibrant cultural festivities and events that showcase the rich traditions of its inhabitants. From the Bobum or Dipo Festival, marking the initiation of adolescent girls into womanhood, to the Akwantukese Festival, a celebration of consecration and homage to ancestral spirits, these events provide a colorful tapestry of cultural expressions.
Other notable festivals include the Odwira Festival, Ngmayem Festival, and the Klovo Sikplemi Festival, each with its unique significance and rituals. These festivals serve as an embodiment of the region's cultural identity and contribute to the sense of unity among its people.
Tourist Attractions
The Eastern Region beckons tourists with a diverse range of attractions, from natural wonders to historic sites. Some must-visit locations include:
Shai Hills Resource Reserve
Aburi Botanical Gardens
Boti Waterfalls
Akosombo Dam
The Big Tree at Oda
Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm
Lake Volta
These attractions offer a blend of scenic beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness, making the Eastern Region a captivating destination for travelers.
Notable Citizens
The Eastern Region has been home to several notable individuals who have made significant contributions to Ghana's development. From political figures like Nana Akufo-Addo to cultural icons like Seth Terkper and sporting heroes like Thomas Teye Partey, the region has nurtured diverse talents that have left an indelible mark on the nation.
Ghana's Eastern Region stands as a multifaceted gem, blending natural splendors, cultural vibrancy, and economic resilience. As we traverse through its landscapes and delve into its rich heritage, the Eastern Region unfolds as a captivating destination that encapsulates the essence of Ghana's diversity and dynamism. Whether exploring the lush greenery of Aburi Botanical Gardens or witnessing the grandeur of the Akosombo Dam, this region beckons adventurers and cultural enthusiasts alike to embark on a journey of discovery.
