Known as the “Gateway” of Africa, modern Ghana is named after a medieval empire of Ghana that existed in the 15th century with Kumbi Saleh as its capital. A name which recalled one of the most glorious African empires in the early days. The ancient empire of Ghana was the title given to its rulers which means “Warrior King.” The ancient empire expanded between modern-day Mali and Mauritania until it was overtaken by the competing powers of Mali and Songhai Empires.
source
The roots of Ghanaian nationalism go back to the early decades of the 20th century and before and during the Second World War, nationalism flourished in Ghana with huge opposition to European colonialism.
Post-World War Two incidents led to radical nationalist movements that sprang up against the British Crown and were often characterised by frequent labour actions, widespread demonstration and looting of European stores as a form of protest to fight for independence.
source
Agitations and mass action for independence under Kwame Nkrumah took shape and forced the British Crown to grant Ghana its independence. As the first country south of the Saharan to gain independence from colonialism, Ghana embolden and inspired other nationalists movements across the continent to fight against great colonial masters such as Britain, France, Portugal, Spain and Belgium.
After its independence, Ghana became the beacon of Pan-Africanism and called for a federal Africa with one government, one foreign policy, one army and one currency. But unknown to those calling for Pan-Africanism, France and other big powers have already infiltrated the ranks of some African leaders to the extent that the idea of One Africa never materialize.
On the economic front, Ghana is not doing so well despite becoming Africa’s fastest-growing economy in 2017. The Ghanaian currency the Cedis has hugely depreciated in value with debt to GDP over 80%.
source
The country is still tied to the export of raw minerals and hugely depends on finished goods from Europe, China and the US. Its extractive industry has created an enclave economy without any linkages to manufacturing or Agriculture.
To be continued...
