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UPPER WEST REGION |
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The capital of the Upper West Region, Wa, lies within a vast
savanna grassland. It can be reached by road from Accra through
Kumasi.
Buses link the various towns and villages within the region's
various districts. If you are looking for a more interesting,
enjoyable way to explore Wa, hire a bicycle from the city.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
NATURAL
Gbelle
Game Reserve
The Reserve is located about 17km south of Tumu. It is a sanctuary
for many endangered species of wildlife like hippos, and water
bucks, elephants and birds of spectacular plumage. The Reserve's
specialized activities are devoted primarily to conservation
and reproduction in an effort to protect and increase the animal
population.
HISTORIC
Wa
Naa's Palace
This 19th century palace skillfully blends Sudanese and Moorish
architecture and still stands as stately and beautiful as the
day it was built. The Palace has many compounds which accommodate
the numerous clans who have occupied the throne. It is the official
residence of the Wa Naa, Paramount Chief of the Walas. In front
of the Palace you will see the graves of past Wa Naas.
George Ekem Ferguson's Grave
A Ghanaian colonial agent from Anomabu, George Ekem was instrumental
in convincing the local chiefs in the North to sign treaties
of friendship with the British. In 1897, a few years before
the entire North (including Upper East and West) became a British
Protectorate, he was captured by Samory, the famous slave raider,
and was beheaded for aiding the white men. His grave is preserved
in Wa.
Gbollu Defence Wall
Built by Gbollu Koro Liman in the latter part of the 19th century
as a defence against Samory's slave raids, parts of the wall
and its foundation are still visible. Gbollu is located 70km
north of Wa, near the Burkina Faso border.
FESTIVALS
Kobine
Festival
This post-harvest festival gives thanks to the gods for a bountiful
harvest. It is normally celebrated in the month of September
by the Dagaaba. The 3-day festival culminates in feasting and
dancing.
Damba Festival
Originally linked with Islam to mark the birth of Mohammed,
the festival has gradually taken on a traditional rather than
Islamic tone. The 2-day festival is full of pageantry and showmanship
and is celebrated in the towns of Dagbon, Gonjaland, Mamprusiland
and Nanumbaland.
Eiok Festival
The annual "Fiok Festival" is celebrated by the Builsas
of Sandema in December. This is a war festival which re-enacts
the ancient heroic exploits of the Builsas. Amid drumming and
dancing, the gods are invoked for protection and for a bountiful
harvest.
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