Beauty within the Unfamiliar
Everything is a little different in Africa – at least, from an European Perspective. A little louder, a little more crowded, a whole lot more colorful. And through the eyes of a photographer, Ghana has fascinating stories and details to offer around every corner.
All of the photos above were taken in Accra, Ghana’s capital. 2.2 million people live and work here. This is also where I was living during my three-months-stay in 2007.
The city is a vibrating place, from everyday’s insane traffic to party life at night at the so-called spots, where you listen to local music and have some Star beer.
Out on the streets
As with most of the capitals in this world, traffic is quite a nightmare in Ghana. Cars are stuck on the streets, and to understand the bus system in Accra, you have to be introduced by a local. No fixed routes, no timetables. You better know which corner to wait and what hand-sign to do to find your right transportation. But once you’re there, it will probably the bus ride with the most rewarding out-of-the-window-look you’ll ever get.
All the small details
Strolling through Accra’s streets or going on a trip to the countryside, Ghana never gets boring. Whether you explore some of the local markets and get in touch with some Ghanaians, you will always find something that you never noticed before and maybe thought wasn’t even possible. You learn a lot, and you need time for that.
So be it after a soccer match with the water hose or during a trip to the Kintampo waterfalls (photos below): You want to have some cool water keeping you fresh and chilled.
The colorful and random life
Yes, there are train tracks going right through market places. And when the train arrives, everybody better get their stuff and step aside. That is business as usual, as is the vast offer at the local markets in general – for example, at Accra’s Kaneshie market. From shoes over tomatoes to your daily needs you will find everything – if you look close enough.
Ghanaians passion: Soccer
Ever wondered where those athletic bodies come from? Hard work and soccer, that’s it. Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Ghana, and you will find them playing everywhere: On the grass field, on concrete, or at the beach.
Wherever the ball rolls, players will be 100 percent in for the game. Some hope to become good enough for the professional’s league and be a part of the “Black Stars” some day, Ghana’s national team. That could end poverty for some, so they hope.
