Ghana Recap

Yesterday morning the group heard from two instructors from Cape Coast University regarding health care issues in Ghana. The points included the delivery and type of health care services especially in remote areas and the role of the national, district and local organizations in providing health care services especially for those who are too poor to pay for adequate health care services.

During the afternoon the group traveled to Elmira, the site of a "slave castle" where millions of Africans were imprisoned before waiting to be transported by ship to various parts of the world.
During the evening the group gathered to attempt to assimilate and articulate what we've experienced thus far. Many of us spoke about our reactions to the fishing village through which we walked the first afternoon. Many of the group had not previously witnessed such extreme poverty; however, many commented on the joy, exuberance and delight of the children despite such conditions.

This morning we listened to an instructor from St. Augustine's College in Cape Coast regarding the history, geography and demographics of Ghana. The instructor also presented information regarding current political structure, and societal and developmental issues.

The afternoon we traveled to Cape Coast, where we experienced the cacophony of cars, trucks, motorcycles, pedestrians, and people selling wares such as dried fish, candy bars, bread and even sunglasses, most of which were carried on their heads in large baskets or platters. We also toured Cape Coast Castle, which was similar to Elmira.

The day ended with a trip to an African festival.

The electricity remains intermittent and unpredictable.

The weather continues to be a bit overcast with light rain showers throughout the day. Although the days have been warm and humid, the nights have been rather cool.