About Kpando
Discover Kpando – The Heart of the Volta Region
Located in the Volta Region of Ghana, Kpando is a vibrant town centrally positioned near the eastern border of Togo and west of Volta Lake. It is approximately a 3 to 4-hour drive from Accra (the capital) via the eastern corridor. As the administrative capital of the district, Kpando offers essential social amenities, including electricity, clean drinking water, and healthcare facilities, making it a key hub in the region.
Culture & Community
Kpando is home to approximately 15,000 residents, who are known for their warm hospitality and strong sense of community. The people primarily speak Ewe, along with English and Hausa. The town thrives on farming, fishing, woodworking, pottery, and other small-scale trades, contributing to the local economy.
Accommodation & Climate
Visitors and volunteers can stay at Ryvanz-Mia Childcare Ghana, with accommodation provided at our foster home, including an option to stay on the second floor. The climate in Kpando is generally hot and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging between 27-35°C (79-95°F) throughout the year.
Ryvanz-Mia Childcare Ghana operates under the supervision and guidance of Ryvanz-Mia Charity Corp (USA), a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible where applicable.
Things to Do in Kpando
If you’re visiting Kpando, here are some must-see attractions and activities that highlight the town’s culture, history, and natural beauty:
• Volta Lake & Fishing Villages – Take a scenic tour of Volta Lake, the largest man-made lake in the world, and visit the fishing communities along its shores.
• Kpando Pottery Village – Explore the artistry of local potters who create beautiful handcrafted clay pots using traditional methods.
• Fesi Shrine & Monkey Sanctuary – Witness the sacred Fesi Shrine and visit the nearby Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary, home to friendly Mona monkeys.
• Kpando Markets & Craft Shops – Experience the vibrant local markets, where artisans sell handmade crafts, woven fabrics, and traditional beads.
• Ote Falls – A hidden gem located a short distance from Kpando, offering a serene environment and picturesque waterfalls for relaxation.
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Arriving in Kpando: What to Expect
Kpando is known for its welcoming and hospitable people. While kindness and warmth define the community, it’s important to remember that, like anywhere in the world, individual behaviors may vary. The town’s villages and markets are lively, and visitors will often hear locals referring to them as ‘you’—a term used to identify foreigners. This is not meant as an insult but rather as a common way to acknowledge people who look different.
For many children, seeing a visitor of another race may be their first experience with diversity. However, locals are eager to engage and learn from visitors. A common greeting in Kpando is “woezor” (welcome), and a polite response is “Akpe” (thank you).
Cultural Practices & Traditions
Ghanaian culture is deeply rooted in hospitality and respect, and Kpando is no exception. Here are a few cultural practices to keep in mind:
• Using the Right Hand – When eating or handing something to an elder, always use your right hand, as using the left hand is considered disrespectful.
• Shaking Hands – Handshakes are done in a unique right-to-left style, symbolizing respect and connection.
• Funerals & Social Gatherings – Funerals in Kpando are vibrant celebrations of life, filled with music, drumming, and dance, typically held on weekends.
• Time Perception & Transportation – Punctuality is more relaxed in Ghanaian culture, and local transportation may take time to fill up before departing—so be patient.
• Food & Drink – Visitors should not hesitate to mention if they are hungry or thirsty, as locals are always willing to offer food or water.
• Acceptance of Different Lifestyles – While alcohol and smoking are not very common in Kpando, locals are open-minded and respectful toward visitors from different cultures.
Experience the Warmth of Kpando
Kpando offers a unique cultural experience, from historic sites and markets to the friendly and welcoming nature of its people. Whether you’re here to explore, volunteer, or simply immerse yourself in local traditions, Kpando is a place where every visitor feels at home.