Coat of Arms of Ghana facts for kids
The coat of arms of Ghana is a special symbol for the country of Ghana. It was officially chosen on March 4, 1957, by a talented Ghanaian artist named Amon Kotei. This symbol helps tell the story of Ghana's history, its people, and its hopes for the future.
Contents
What Does Ghana's Coat of Arms Mean?
Ghana's coat of arms is full of important symbols. Each part represents something special about the nation. Understanding these symbols helps us learn about Ghana's values and its journey to independence.
The Shield and Its Divisions
The main part of the coat of arms is a large shield. This shield is divided into four sections by a green cross with gold edges. This green cross is known as a St. George's Cross. In the very center of this cross, there is a golden lion. The lion is a symbol of strength and courage. It also connects Ghana to the Commonwealth of Nations, a group of countries that were once part of the British Empire.
Top Left: The Sword and Staff
In the top left section of the shield, you will see a traditional sword. This sword is called an okyeame poma. It is a special sword used by a speaker or spokesperson in traditional Ghanaian ceremonies. Next to it is a staff. These two items together represent the local government and traditional leadership in Ghana. They show the importance of both modern and traditional ways of governing.
Top Right: The Castle
The top right section of the shield shows a castle sitting by the sea. This castle is a picture of Osu Castle, also known as Christianborg Castle. This historic building in Accra, the capital city, was once a very important government building. It represents the government of Ghana and how the country is managed.
Bottom Left: The Cocoa Tree
In the bottom left part of the shield, there is a cocoa tree. Cocoa is a very important crop for Ghana. It is one of the country's main exports and helps Ghana's economy grow. The cocoa tree symbolizes the rich farming and natural wealth of the land. It shows how important agriculture is to the people of Ghana.
Bottom Right: The Gold Mine
The bottom right section of the shield features a gold mine. Ghana is famous for its gold, and it has been a source of wealth for centuries. This symbol represents the country's mineral riches and the mining industry. It highlights another important part of Ghana's economy and its natural resources.
The Crest and Supporters
Above the shield, there is a special part called the crest. The crest sits on a colorful wreath made of red, gold, and green. These are the colors of the Ghanaian flag. The crest itself is a black five-pointed star with a gold outline. This black star is a very strong symbol of African freedom and the hopes of the African people. It is also known as the "Lodestar of African Freedom."
The Eagles
On either side of the shield, there are two golden eagles. These eagles are called "supporters" because they look like they are holding up the shield. Each eagle has a black star hanging around its neck, just like the one in the crest. Eagles are known for their strength, their ability to fly high, and their clear vision. They represent the strength and power of the Ghanaian nation.
The Motto
Below the shield, there is a ribbon with the national motto written on it. The motto of Ghana is "Freedom and Justice." This phrase is very important to the country. It shows that Ghana believes in the rights of its people to be free and that everyone should be treated fairly and equally under the law. It reminds everyone of the principles that Ghana was founded upon.
