Brong

Brong refers to an ethnolinguistic group and their historic homeland in central Ghana. The Brong people, also known as Bono, live primarily in what was once the Brong-Ahafo area. The Brong language, also called Bono, is spoken by Brong communities and is related to the Akan language family.

Geography and administration: The Brong-speaking area spans parts of central Ghana and overlaps with the former Brong-Ahafo Region. In 2019, the Brong-Ahafo Region was subdivided into three new regions: Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo. The historical regional capital was Sunyani, and today major towns include Techiman, Dormaa Ahenkro, Goaso, Berekum, Wenchi, and Nkoranza.

History: The Brong trace their political and social organization to a number of pre-colonial communities that later formed a loose alliance under traditional authorities. During the colonial era, the area became part of the Gold Coast administration and later Ghana after independence, with administrative boundaries adjusted over time.

Culture and society: Brong communities practice traditional chieftaincy alongside widespread Christian and Muslim affiliations. Social life centers on markets, farming, and kinship networks. Cultural events and festivals reflect agricultural cycles and community identity.

Economy: Agriculture is the economic mainstay, with crops such as maize, cassava, yams, plantains, and cocoa in some areas. The region hosts markets and small-scale trading, with some involvement in mining and timber resources.

See also: Brong-Ahafo Region, Bono East Region, Bono Region.