Before departing on our trip to Ghana, we were instructed about some of the unique aspects of Ghanaian culture that are distinctly different than back in the U.S.. Senyo Ofori-Parku, one of our professors for this program and a Ghanaian native, taught us about the bargaining tactic used to purchase food, clothes and more in local markets or on the streets.

Unlike in America, where the price of an item is set in stone, here in Ghana, prices are easily negotiable and bargaining is even expected. It is seen as a way to communicate with one another. Before the process of negotiating begins, you introduce yourself and ask them how they are doing (they love it even more if you can speak it in Twi, the local language). This is seen as a form of respect. Some Ghanaians won’t even acknowledge you until you have properly introduced yourself. I find this piece of local culture important to note because, in America, we are not expected to strike up conversation with a cashier or barista. This ability to simply communicate does not come naturally to many Americans, yet here in Ghana, people seem to be able to talk to just about anyone!

It has been a week since we landed in Accra, and many of our excursions have led us to buy local souvenirs, engaging us in this bargaining process. Some have been successful; negotiating the price down to (what we think) is a reasonable price, while some became nervous in this somewhat “awkward” encounter, purchasing the item for what it was initially asked for.

Hopefully as our adventures continue here in Ghana, we will develop the skills to confidently bargain and communicate with the local people!