Amplifying Ghana’s tourism potential: The case of Nkwanta in the Oti Region

“We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open.” – Jawaharial Nehru

Indeed, the above words of Jawaharial are a direct expression of our motherland, Ghana. It is a blessed country with an abundance of stunning natural resources and tourist attractions, from its rich historical heritage to vibrant cultural traditions. The country’s diverse geography and heritage make it a prime destination for tourism, offering experiences ranging from historical exploration to adventure-filled ecotourism.

Yet, while certain iconic attractions like the Cape Coast Castle and the Kakum National Park are well-known, other exciting destinations remain underexplored. One such area is the Nkwanta South Municipality in the Oti Region. The municipality is home to numerous hidden gems that have the potential to revolutionise tourism in Ghana. A recent academic visit to the area gave us (“a team of young student researchers”) a reason to amplify and encourage both domestic and foreign tourists to visit the Nkwanta South tourist sites for a unique and breathtaking experience that will linger forever.

‘Nkwanta South: A Municipality of Untapped Wonders’

Nkwanta South is one of the eight assemblies in the Oti Region, one of the regions recently created to help address the developmental needs of Ghana as a whole. The municipality boasts a landscape of lush green hills, stunning waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural sites, all still waiting to be fully discovered by the wider world. Below are some of the unique attractions in the area:

Mount Kyabobo

At the heart of Nkwanta’s ecotourism offering is Mount Kyabobo, Ghana’s second-largest mountain after the renowned Mount Afadjato. Located within the Kyabobo National Park, Mount Kyabobo is a haven for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers. The mountain’s trails provide a captivating experience, with breathtaking views of the surrounding plains and the Volta Basin, offering a panoramic perspective of the country’s northern beauty.

Accordingly, the park itself, established in 1993, covers an area of 360 square kilometers and is home to diverse wildlife such as elephants, antelopes, and various bird species. Its rugged terrain, rich biodiversity, and quiet serenity make Kyabobo National Park a prime location for adventure tourism. The park was named after Mount Djebobo, which in the local language means “to travel around and around in order to arrive at the top,” a fitting name for the winding ascent that rewards visitors with a stunning view.

The Hanging Village of Shiare

Among the most intriguing and lesser-known attractions of Nkwanta is Shiare, a remarkable “hanging village” nestled on the side of a mountain. Shiare, sometimes referred to as the “floating village” by locals, is perched high above the ground, giving the impression that it is suspended in mid-air. It is believed to be the only known hanging village in West Africa, and its striking location offers visitors a surreal view that seems almost otherworldly. The village has retained its traditional structure, with houses made of stone and mud, topped with iron sheets or thatch roofing.

Shiare’s historical significance and cultural heritage are equally compelling. The Akyode people, who migrated from Ejisu to this secluded spot due to tribal conflicts, chose this mountainous location for security and farming purposes. Today, the village offers a peaceful retreat for tourists interested in exploring Ghana’s rural life, while also enjoying the village’s serene beauty.

The Breast Mountain: A Natural Marvel

Another extraordinary natural landmark in Nkwanta is the Breast Mountain, so named because of its resemblance to the shape of a human breast. The Breast Mountain is part of the Kyabobo National Park and has become a favourite for adventurous hikers. The hike up to the summit, popularly known as Nipple Rock, offers an exhilarating experience, with a seven-kilometer round-trip that begins at the nearby village of Odome. From the summit, visitors are treated to stunning views of the Volta Basin and the expansive plains.

Waterfalls and Rare Butterfly Species: Ecological Gems of Nkwanta

The Nkwanta South Municipality is also home to several hidden waterfalls and natural attractions. These waterfalls, surrounded by lush vegetation, provide a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking tranquility in nature. Uniquely, Nkwanta also happens to be one of the only two places in the whole world known to host a rare species of butterfly, making it a must-visit destination for entomologists and nature enthusiasts alike.

The rich diversity of flora and fauna in the region has positioned Nkwanta as a biodiversity hotspot, especially for ecotourism lovers. The picturesque Aka Falls near Akposo-Kabo is a prime example of the area’s natural beauty flowing through a lush forested area. This waterfall is thought to be a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its scenic surroundings and refreshing waters.

Cultural Heritage and the Power of Local Traditions

Aside the natural beauty, Nkwanta boasts a deep cultural heritage. The region is known for its vibrant festivals, including local ceremonies that celebrate the agricultural cycle and pay homage to ancestral spirits. Visitors to the area are warmly welcomed by the local Akyode people, who take pride in sharing their customs, dances, and oral histories with outsiders. The Akyode Shrine is considered one of the most powerful spiritual sites in the region, attracting both locals and tourists who are curious to learn more about traditional African spirituality.

Kyabobo National Park: A Growing Hub for Adventure Tourism

Kyabobo National Park continues to be a central attraction in Nkwanta, offering visitors a wide range of activities from hiking and birdwatching to wildlife safaris. The park is home to over 500 species of butterflies, a rare and beautiful sight that adds to the region’s allure. The vast expanse of the park makes it an ideal location for eco-tourism, and there are ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and create more visitor-friendly amenities.

In addition to its natural wonders, the park’s proximity to neighbouring Togo makes it an ideal stop for cross-border tourists. Investment in infrastructure such as roads, lodging, and communication will further elevate Kyabobo’s standing as a top-tier tourism destination in Ghana.

These are some of the hidden gems and unique tourist attractions within Nkwanta South in the Oti Region. Amplifying these underexplored attractions can further solidify Ghana’s position as a leading tourism destination in Africa and the world as a whole. Global attention should therefore be pushed for Nkwanta as a favorite tourism destination through initiatives like December in Ghana.

As Nelson Mandela, one of the greatest Presidents and Legends of Africa, said; “Tourism is the engine of growth and job creation in the global economy.” Ghana therefore has a brighter opportunity in this regard to engender job creation and national development through its naturally blessed tourist attractions.