Tema: Meridian, Kplejoo and Harbour Tours

Tema offers several distinct points of interest for planning a trip: geographical connections to the Meridian at two named locations, the annual Kplejoo tradition and guided harbour tours. These topics appeal to different interests and also call for different kinds of planning. While the Meridian locations establish a geographical or historical connection, Kplejoo introduces visitors to the agricultural tradition of Tema’s people. For the harbour tour, the days on which it is offered and the required enquiry are key. When looking for a hotel in Tema, you can start with the focus that best suits your trip.

The Meridian: two distinct connections

The historic Presbyterian Church in Tema lies on the Greenwich Meridian. Another point of reference is Hole 7 at the Ghana Centre of the World Golf Club, where the Prime Meridian runs. The same geographical reference can therefore be found at two different named locations: a historic church and a specific hole at the golf club. This distinction is useful for orientation: the church connects the Meridian with a historic building, while the golf club hole marks its path at a precise point. If you are interested in geographical features, you can use these specific locations to understand Tema, rather than viewing the Prime Meridian only as an abstract concept.

Kplejoo and agriculture

The annual Kplejoo festival of Tema’s people marks the start of the farming season. Agricultural work begins with the festival, particularly maize cultivation in preparation for Homowo, which is celebrated as a harvest festival. This sequence gives the festival a clear agricultural context: Kplejoo marks the start of the work, while Homowo is connected with the harvest. This connection is especially useful for trip planning because it shows that the tradition is not limited to a single festival date, but highlights the seasonal relationship between cultivation and harvest.

During the Kplejoo festival, the Tanon drum is played in the evening at the Sakumo-Wulomo shrine. It symbolises unity and reconciliation. These two elements highlight different aspects of the same festival: the fieldwork gives it a seasonal context, while the drum performance represents the stated values. For travellers interested in cultural traditions, this connection between the start of agricultural work and communal symbolism offers a tangible way to experience Kplejoo.

Guided harbour tours

The Port of Tema offers guided harbour tours from Tuesday to Friday. The tours include a trip through the harbour, a view of the roadstead and a look at various types of ships. This makes the offer distinct from the Meridian connections and the festival tradition: the focus is on a guided introduction to the harbour. For travellers interested in the roadstead and different ships, it offers a clearly defined point of interest. An enquiry by letter or email to the Public Affairs and Marketing Manager is required. Include this enquiry as a firm step in your planning and check the current arrangements before your visit.

Annual festival or weekday tour?

The difference helps with timing: Kplejoo is an annual festival, while harbour tours are offered from Tuesday to Friday. If Kplejoo affects your travel dates, check the specific event dates; for the harbour tour, you also need to make the required enquiry.

Discover more destinations: Bortianor, Nii Okaiman East, Amasaman, Prampram, Kwabenya, Danfa, Madina, Adenta Municipality

For the wider travel overview: Greater Accra.