The Ashanti Region is located in south Ghana and is third largest of 16 administrative regions (formerly 10), occupying a total land surface of 24,389 km2 (9,417 sq mi) or 10.2 per cent of the total land area of Ghana. In terms of population, however, it is the most populated region with a population of 4,780,380 according to the 2011 census, accounting for 19.4% of Ghana's total population. The Ashanti Region is known for its major gold bar and cocoa production. The largest city and regional capital is Kumasi.
Location and size
The Ashanti Region is located in south Ghana and is third largest of 16 administrative regions (formerly 10), occupying a total land surface of 24,389 km2 (9,417 sq mi) or 10.2 per cent of the total land area of Ghana. In terms of population, however, it is the most populated region with a population of 4,780,380 according to the 2011 census, accounting for 19.4% of Ghana's total population. The Ashanti Region is known for its major gold bar and cocoa production. The largest city and regional capital is Kumasi.
Tourism
Parks
1. Bobiri Forest Butterfly Sanctuary
2. Bomfobiri Wildlife Sanctuary
3. Digya National Park
4. Kogyae Strict Nature Reserve
5. Owabi Forest Reserve and Bird Sanctuary
Recreation areas
1. Centre for National Culture
2. Rattray Park
Historic sites
1. Komfo Anokye Sword site
2. Manhyia Palace Museum
3. Kumasi Fort and Military Museum
4. Armed Forces Museum
5. The Prempeh II Jubilee Museum
6. The Asante Traditional Buildings
7. Yaa Asantewaa Museum
Festivals
Several festivals are celebrated in the region, the major ones being the Akwasidae and Adae Kese. These are religious festivals celebrated by some members of the Akan ethnic group of which the Ashanti belong. The festivals are celebrated to remember past leaders and heroes. Though they are dead, their spirits are believed to be alive and taking interest in the affairs of the living, watching their actions, and consulting with them during the Adae festival.
Education
Administrative divisions
The political administration of the region is through the local government system. Under this administration system, the region is divided into 43 districts made up of 1 Metropolitan, 18 Municipal and 24 Ordinary districts. Each District, Municipal or Metropolitan Assembly, is administered by a Chief Executive, representing the central government but deriving authority from an Assembly headed by a presiding member elected from among the members themselves.
