Area Code 338 – Central Region
The phone area code for Central Region is 338 (international format +233338). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.
📍 Geographic Location of Central Region
Geographic Overview
The +233 338 area code is a geographic National Destination Code (NDC) assigned to the Central Region of Ghana. This region is administratively headquartered in Cape Coast, a historic city known for its coastal forts and educational institutions. The code covers a mix of urban and rural districts, including the Cape Coast Metropolitan Area, Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abirem, and surrounding municipalities. As part of Ghana's national numbering plan, this code is used for fixed-line (PSTN) services, and it is not associated with mobile or non-geographic services.
Dialing Formats
When calling a fixed-line number in the Central Region from within Ghana, subscribers must dial the trunk prefix '0' followed by the area code and the subscriber number. For example, a local number might be formatted as 033 8XX XXXX (with the leading '0' used for domestic calls). From outside Ghana, callers should use the international format: +233 338 XX XXXX, omitting the leading '0'. It is important to note that the subscriber number length may vary, but the total length of the national significant number (NSN) is typically 9 digits, including the leading '0' for domestic dialing.
Caller Instructions
- Local callers (within Ghana): Dial 0338 followed by the subscriber number. For example, if the subscriber number is 123 4567, dial 0338 123 4567.
- International callers: Dial your country's exit code (e.g., 00 from most countries, 011 from the US/Canada), then Ghana's country code +233, then the area code 338, and finally the subscriber number. For example, +233 338 123 4567.
Overlay and Numbering Considerations
As of the latest ITU-T E.164 national numbering plan updates, the Central Region code has not been overlaid with additional area codes. However, Ghana's National Communications Authority (NCA) periodically reviews numbering resources. Subscribers should always verify the correct dialing format with their service provider, especially when making calls from VoIP or mobile networks, as some operators may require the full international format even for domestic calls.
Administrative and Economic Context
The Central Region is a key economic zone, with industries ranging from fishing and agriculture to tourism and education. The University of Cape Coast, a major tertiary institution, is located within this code area. Businesses and institutions in the region rely on fixed-line services for reliable communication, though mobile penetration is high. For enterprises, having a geographic number like +233 338 can enhance local presence and customer trust.