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Tema New Town

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City
—°
Tema New Town (Ghana)
ℹ️

Practical info — Tema New Town

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • This historic fishing community is best experienced early morning when the colorful canoes return with their catch.
  • The streets are narrow and densely populated; walking is often faster than driving.
  • The strong scent of smoked fish is a hallmark of the area.
  • Engage respectfully with fishermen before taking photos of their boats.
  • Drop-in taxis are a better choice than trotros for navigating the inner roads.

🍽 Food

🍽
Smoked Fish with Kenkey

Grab this local delicacy straight from the harbor area vendors.

🍽
Banku and Okro Soup

A rich and filling meal that pairs perfectly with fresh seafood.

🍽
Fresh Catch Seafood

Sample the fresh catch of the day prepared right by the waterfront.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Tema Newtown Fish Market

The premier spot in the area for buying freshly smoked fish.

🛍
Harbor Craft Stalls

Look out for small stalls selling woodwork and local crafts.

🧘
The Canoe Basin

Watch the boats bobbing in the water during a peaceful sunrise.

🧘
Meridian Rock Area

A nearby quiet spot where the Greenwich Meridian passes.

Tema New Town, also known as Manhean, is the ancestral home of the Tema fishing community within the Greater Accra Region. Its history is intrinsically linked to the construction of the Tema Harbour in the 1950s, which necessitated the relocation of the original Tema villagers to make way for the modern deep-sea port. Today, Tema New Town stands as a densely populated area that maintains its distinct Ga traditional character despite being surrounded by one of West Africa's largest industrial zones. Fishing remains the primary economic activity, with the local landing beach serving as a critical supply point for fresh seafood to the Accra-Tema metropolitan area. Culturally, the town is a focal point for the Homowo festival, where the community and traditional leaders gather to celebrate their heritage and honor their ancestors. Geographically situated along the Gulf of Guinea, the area faces significant environmental and infrastructural challenges due to its proximity to heavy industry. Nevertheless, Manhean remains the spiritual and traditional heart of the Tema people.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272828282726252425262727
Rain mm224410413419619791401021496425

Geography

Population
95,837 (2023)
Coordinates
5.65590, -0.01520

Facts

  • Established in 1952 after the relocation of the original Tema villagers.
  • Locally and formally known as 'Manhean'.
  • Seat of the Tema Traditional Council and the Tema Mantse.
  • A major hub for artisanal fishing and fish processing.
  • Located on the Gulf of Guinea, immediately east of the Tema Harbour.
  • Central site for the performance of annual Homowo rites in Tema.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Tema and Tema New Town?
Tema New Town is the original indigenous settlement, while Tema is a planned industrial city.
What is the main activity in Tema New Town?
Fishing dominates life here, with a very busy canoe landing site and fish market.
Are there cultural attractions?
You can visit the traditional palace and experience the spirited culture of the Ga-Dangme people.
Is Tema New Town accessible to visitors?
Yes, visitors are welcome but should show respect for local traditions and the privacy of residents.
What can you do nearby?
The Tema Harbour and the city's industrial areas are just a short drive away.
Tema New Town: where is it located?
Tema New Town is located in Ghana.
Tema New Town: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
Tema New Town: why is it worth visiting?
Tema New Town, also known as Manhean, is the ancestral home of the Tema fishing community within the Greater Accra Region.
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