Tarkwa

Tarkwa is a place in the Western Region in the West African state of Ghana and the capital of the Wassa West District.

Population

At the last census of the country on 26 March 2000, there were 30 631 inhabitants in the city. Extrapolations from 1 January 2007 estimate the population to 34 544 inhabitants. In the census of the year 1984 22.107 inhabitants were listed, and even in 1970 the population was a mere 4,702 inhabitants. Currently, the city is located on the 41th position in the list of the largest cities in Ghana.

The original population of the city is ethnically composed of members of the Wassa - people. The influx of workers due to the mining industry, however, has ensured a significant ethnic differentiation.

Economy

In Tarkwa gold is obtained for 100 years. In the surrounding area you will find the highest concentration of mines in a district in the entire Africa. 25% of Ghana's gold production comes from Tarkwa. Gold extraction is thereby also a significant negative impact on the environment around the city.

Tarkwa is also an important railway junction on the route from Takoradi to Kumasi.

Famous son of the city

  • John Atta Mills

Education

Tarkwa is the site of the University of Mines and Technology.

762201
de