ROAXIM - Roots of Axim

Axim

Axim is home to sub-Saharan Africa’s second oldest fort (Fort St. Anthonio - 1515), and its main attractions are its beaches, its rich history and culture, and the architectural diversity of its buildings. Axim is the largest town on the west coast of Takoradi distinguishable by rocky beaches. This settlement of approximately fifteen thousand people is situated in a tranquil and sheltered natural bay. With its tarred roads, good infrastructure and utilities, Axim is most probably one of the locations on the west coast where one can enjoy nature without giving up convenience.   Axim was formed from two settlements known as ‘Upper Town’ and ‘Lower Town’. The townspeople are mainly fishermen and farmers. In the 16th century, Axim was one of the busiest trading posts on the West African coast. History has it that Axim was a major port for the export of mainly timber products and gold. Many companies established their offices in Axim and engaged in brisk commercial activities.

Axim however, lost its glamour when the Takoradi and later the Tema harbours were constructed. Currently, although Axim seems like a sleepy town, it has a large vibrant fishing community that produces fresh and dry fish for sale in the urban centres. Rubber, palm and timber plantations also abound in the area. Architecturally and historically, one of Axim’s most interesting features is the triangular-shaped Fort San Antonio/Fort St. Anthonio, sub-Saharan Africa’s second oldest fort, constructed by the Portuguese in 1515, after Fort St. Jago in Elmina. San Antonio was conquered by the Dutch in 1642 and its control exchanged hands many times, ending with the British. Today, the structure is fairly well preserved. Other interesting colonial-era buildings include the popular Beach comber bar (know a recreational center), the old buildings of the former Public Works Department, the dilapidated Paa Grant House, the old Police Station building, the car park, the 1920s Quandahor Building among others.

Axim has undergone several developments which could make the town seem different if it's been years you visited the place.