Shai Hills – A Company Outing with a Difference

In mid-July, the Ghanaian team from EWIA Green Investments traded their desks and project meetings for an exciting day outdoors at the Shai Hills Resource Reserve. We immersed ourselves in the world and sacred sites of the Shai people, marveled at the diversity of wildlife in the reserve, and grew even closer as a team. Join us on our journey to the Shai Hills!

The Shai Hills Resource Reserve, established in 1971, is located in the south of the country, about 50 kilometers northeast of Accra in the Greater Accra Region. The trip was organized as part of our team-building activities and gave all team members the opportunity to get to know each other better while exploring one of Ghana’s most significant historical and ecological landmarks.

Setting Off from the EWIA Office in Accra

This June 19 began early in the morning at the EWIA office, where the team had gathered, full of anticipation for the adventure ahead. At 9:00 a.m. sharp, we set off for Shai Hills, and even on the way there, we were already having fun taking lots of photos.

At 10:45 a.m., we—ten members of the Ghana team and our CFO, Timo—arrived at the nature reserve. Everyone was looking forward to spending time together away from our daily routines, building team spirit, and creating lasting memories.

The Resilience of the Shai

Our first stop was Mogo Hill, one of the nature reserve’s most famous attractions. Led by Chief, our knowledgeable tour guide, we began the ascent, aided by ropes attached at strategic points along the trail. As we climbed the rocky path, we spotted birds, baboons, and green monkeys that call the nature reserve home.

Chief told us fascinating stories about the Shai people, members of the Ga ethnic group who had settled in these hills centuries ago. The caves and rock overhangs served as their dwellings and refuges, offering protection from both the forces of nature and external threats. We learned a great deal about the challenges the Shai people faced during the colonial era. In the 19th century, conflicts with British troops led to many residents being driven from the hills to the plains below. Today, this place stands as a striking testament to their resilience and cultural heritage, and their descendants continue to return here every year to celebrate their history and cultural traditions.

When we reached the top of the hill, we were rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Standing at the top of the hill and taking in the vast landscape was a moment that reminded us of the beauty and diversity of Ghana’s nature.

Ghana’s rich wildlife took our breath away

After we had descended Mogo Hill, our adventure continued with a visit to the wildlife areas of the nature reserve. We observed zebras and ostriches in designated enclosures and also encountered animals living in the wild. Baboons, antelopes, green monkeys, and a wide variety of bird species provided ample opportunities for observation and photography. Seeing these animals in their natural habitat deepened our appreciation for the conservation efforts and the importance of protecting Ghana’s biodiversity.

The journey through history continued at the reserve’s Natural and Cultural Heritage Museum. There, we gained fascinating insights into the life of the Shai people through archaeological finds from ancient settlements and caves. Pottery shards, household items, figurines, and traditional objects painted a vivid picture of how these communities once lived, worked, and practiced their faith.

One of the museum’s most fascinating sections featured preserved animal hides and skulls, offering a glimpse into the nature reserve’s remarkable wildlife. Together, these exhibits highlighted the unique blend of cultural heritage and ecological significance that makes Shai Hills such an important destination.

Nothing is as educational as traveling

After a hearty and convivial lunch, we set off on our return journey around 3:30 p.m. We saw and learned a lot, explored Ghana’s rich history and diverse wildlife, and—last but not least—strengthened our bonds as a team. We grew as a team that day.

Reserves preserve things and structures that are important to their own identity. Our trip to the Shai Hills drove this point home to us once again. And that is exactly what we want to do as a company: we preserve. Fossil fuels drive climate change; we counteract it with the power of the sun.