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Here's some travel advice to keep you informed and safe when it comes to travel to Ghana...
Civil Unrest/Political Tension
Travellers are advised to defer all travel to the Dagbon Traditional Area of Yendi, northeast Ghana. While the longstanding state of emergency imposed on the area has been lifted, the security situation remains tense.
Travellers are advised to exercise extreme caution in the Ghana-Togo border region due to the uncertain security situation in Togo following elections on 24 April 2005.
Personal Security
Travellers who are conspicuous as foreigners, particularly women on their own, are increasingly the target of opportunistic crimes such as muggings, bag snatching, petty theft and pick-pocketing. Such crimes are not usually associated with violence but this possibility cannot be ruled out. Armed robberies and other violent crimes, including rape and house invasions, also occur. There have been reports of passengers in taxis being robbed by drivers.
Thefts by individuals posing as airport staff frequently occur at Kotoka International Airport in the capital, Accra. Legitimate airport staff wear a current identification card which bears their name and photograph. Cards without photographs are not valid.
There have been reports of individuals fraudulently posing as police officers and demanding money from foreigners.
Seafarers are advised that piracy occurs in the coastal areas of Ghana.
Local Conditions
Police road blocks are common throughout the country and identity documentation and vehicle registration and ownership papers may be required to be shown.
Local Law and Customs
Travellers are reminded that when overseas, they are subject to local laws. Local laws and legal processes can be very different from those at home. A violation of local laws may result in a jail sentence, served in a local prison. Consular assistance cannot override local law, even where local laws may appear harsh or unjust by your standards.
Taking photographs of or near government buildings or other infrastructure, including oilfields, can lead to detention as can the wearing of military style clothing which could be misunderstood by local authorities.
Homosexual acts are illegal.
Entry and Exit Requirements
Visa conditions are subject to change. For up-to-date visa information, travellers should contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Ghana, well in advance of travel.
A valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is required for entry into Ghana.
Ghana is listed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as endemic for yellow fever. Some airlines may require passengers to present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate before being allowed to board flights out of the country.
If in doubt, travellers are advised to check with their airlines.
Health Issues
Medical facilities are basic in major cities and limited in rural areas. Water-borne diseases and malaria are prevalent. The HIV/AIDS infection rate is high.
Source: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
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