Aburi, located in the Eastern Region of Ghana, is a town steeped in rich history and cultural significance. Situated about 30 kilometers northeast of Accra, the capital city, Aburi is renowned for its stunning landscapes, cooler climate, and proximity to the Akwapim Mountain range. The town’s history, shaped by its strategic location and unique blend of indigenous and colonial influences, offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of Ghanaian society.
Aburi, a serene town nestled in the Akuapem Mountains of Ghana’s Eastern Region, holds a unique and richly layered history. As the seat of the Adonten Division within the Akuapem Traditional Area, Aburi has long played a vital role in the socio-political, cultural, and spiritual evolution of the region.
According to recorded history, the core towns of the Adonten Division—Aburi, Brekuso, Ahwerase, and Atweasin—were already settled by the early 18th century, with most sources dating these settlements around 1730. These towns collectively form the heart of the Adonten division and owe allegiance to Akropong, the seat of the Okuapehene (paramount chief of Akuapem).
The people of Aburi belong to the Agona clan and originally migrated from Nkunkren to Amanfo, the present location that now hosts the Aburi Botanical Gardens and the Presbyterian Women’s Training College. The people of Brekuso are believed to have migrated from Nyanawase near Nsawam, moving through Pokuase before settling at their current site. Ahwerase residents trace their lineage from Adanse Akrokyere, first settling at a place locally known as Anpong-ammoa—meaning "Ampong did not lie"—before relocating to their present location. The Atweasin people also migrated from Kokofu in Asante Ntoasosin to their current home. These three towns—Atweasin, Ahwerase, and Brekuso—are referred to as the “Amantow Nsia” or the “Three Pillars” of the Adonten Division.
The formation of the Akuapem State followed a historic conflict. In 1730, the local people successfully liberated themselves from Akwamu rule after a decisive war of independence. This led to the official creation of the Akuapem State in October 1733, spearheaded by Nana Safori, the first Omanhene, at Asanteman (present-day Obosomase).
Aburi’s cooler climate, elevated position, and fertile land attracted European merchants, missionaries, and later colonial administrators. One of the earliest documented European visits to Aburi occurred in 1786, when Nana Osae Ntifo, a local chief, received Paul Isert, a Danish botanist and explorer. This encounter marked the beginning of a long-standing relationship between the people of Aburi and foreign missionaries.
By the mid-19th century, Basel missionaries had begun settling in the area. Andreas Riis, a notable figure in Ghanaian missionary history, established a presence in 1848, laying the foundation for Christianity in the region. A formal mission church was constructed in Aburi in 1856, solidifying the town’s place in the religious transformation of southern Ghana.
Infrastructure development followed with the construction of the Aburi–Accra road in 1877, significantly boosting trade and accessibility. This development set the stage for further progress. In 1889, Aburi became home to Ghana’s first agricultural research station, focused on tropical crops like cocoa, rubber, and coffee—crops that would later shape Ghana’s export economy.
In 1890, Aburi was chosen by the British colonial administration as a strategic hill station, a retreat for colonial officials seeking relief from the heat and humidity of coastal Accra. Telegraph lines reached the town in 1892, and Aburi became home to the second post office established in the then Gold Coast, further elevating its administrative status.
The Aburi Botanical Gardens, today one of Ghana's most iconic tourist destinations, was officially opened to the public in 1928. That same year, the people of Aburi constructed the Aburi–Nsawam motor road, further enhancing connectivity. The botanical gardens, converted from the agricultural station, remain a symbol of the town’s enduring relationship with nature, science, and tourism.
Governance within Aburi has also evolved. In 1959, under the presidency of Nana Osae Djan II, the Adonten Divisional Council declared a rotational system of leadership among three royal houses:
Awo Agyaa House of Agyamanti
Amene House of Fotobi
Aku Badu House of Nsakye
The current Aburihene and Adontenhene of Akuapem, Nana Djan Kwasi II, from the Aku Badu House, was enstooled in February 1988, continuing a lineage of leadership rooted in tradition and local governance.
Today, Aburi remains a town of historical prestige and natural beauty. Its lush greenery, colonial architecture, and panoramic views attract visitors from across Ghana and beyond. The presence of key institutions, such as the Presbyterian Women’s Training College, Aburi Girls’ Senior High School, and the Botanical Gardens, has cemented its role as both an educational hub and a major tourist attraction.
Despite modernization, Aburi retains the deep cultural traditions of the Akuapem people while continuing to evolve as a center of learning, heritage, and environmental stewardship. It stands as a proud symbol of Ghana’s layered history—one where indigenous resilience, missionary influence, colonial legacy, and natural beauty meet in harmonious coexistence.