Parting Thoughts

A few more observations before leaving Ghanaian soil once again -
Traditional Ghanaian attire easily mixes in with western fashion, but it is the fit of the Ghanaian woman's dress that stands out for me. She seems to be literally "poured" into her outfit, accentuating every curve. I also enjoy seeing a particular group of people wearing the exact same fabric in varied styles of design: long, short, scoop neck, v-neck, cap sleeves, puffed sleeves, tailored suit, floor-length dress.
While the official language of the country is English, the ability of many Ghanaians to fluently speak several foreign languages is truly impressive. Granted, the less educated speak mainly in their own tribal tongue although even they can understand and make themselves understood in a neighboring tribal language as well. The more educated Ghanaians, however, often travel and supplement their studies outside of the country. This is certainly true of many Ghanaian physicians, some of whom begin university and subsequent medical training abroad when they have just completed secondary school. Several years are spent in Russia, Germany, Cuba or China, first learning the foreign language in an intensified, immersion program. Others complete their basic and specialized studies at one of the four medical schools in Ghana, then often participate in a post-graduate curriculum elsewhere. One resulting frustration is after being exposed to state-of-the-art instruments and technology abroad, one returns to the medical facilities in Ghana where this sorely needed equipment is generally not available.
Patience is a required virtue in this country; change and progress can take a long time. By the same token, Ghanaian attributes are in abundance. Her people are peace-loving, friendly and generous - always ready to say "Welcome!" "Akwaaba" here in Accra or as we say in the North, "Amaraba!"