Nzema

The Nzema are an ethnic group in the western part of Africa, primarily resident in the western region of Ghana and across the border into parts of Côte d'Ivoire. They are one of the coastal communities of the region and have a distinct language and cultural practices that separate them from neighboring groups.

The Nzema language, spoken by the Nzema people, is part of the Niger-Congo language family. It has several dialects and is often learned alongside or in addition to dominant national languages such as English in Ghana. Many Nzema people are bilingual, using English or other local languages in education, media, and commerce.

Geographically, the Nzema are concentrated in Ghana’s Western Region, with significant communities in districts such as Nzema East and Ellembelle. Their presence also extends to cross-border areas in Côte d'Ivoire. The social structure traditionally centers on chieftaincy and local councils, with a paramount chief and subordinate chiefs overseeing communities and customary laws. Religion among the Nzema is diverse, including Christianity, Islam, and traditional beliefs, with many communities integrating traditional practices with modern institutions.

Cultural life features festivals, music, and craft, with the Kundum harvest festival being among the best known celebrations in the region. The Nzema have historically engaged in farming, fishing, and trade, and they participated in early interaction with European traders along the Atlantic coast. In contemporary times, they contribute to Ghana’s economy through agriculture, fishing, commerce, and informal cross-border trade, while maintaining linguistic and cultural heritage.