Mildred Siabi-Mensah
Takoradi, Jan. 14, GNA – Ghana’s Western Region, playing host to numerous natural resources, buzzled with pivotal government and private sector initiatives in 2025.
There were launches of infrastructure projects; economic conferences, entertainment and social health initiatives amid the region’s key role as an oil and mining hub.
Takoradi and Sekondi emerged as focal points for development under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration underscoring the region’s push for economic revitalization and community resilience.
Infrastructure Advances
President Mahama, who visited the Region on three different occasions broke grounds for the Takoradi to Cape Coast dual carriageway highway in October, a flagship “Big Push” project to enhance trade and connectivity while, inspecting the stalled Takoradi Market Circle redevelopment, pledging resumption in 2026 as a priority for economic revival.
The Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly initiated 13 Common Fund projects worth GH¢13.167 million, focusing on education and community facilities, the same was replicated by most assemblies to advance grassroots growth.
The 2025 Local Content Conference and Exhibition (LCCE) opened in Takoradi in November, urging renewed investment in the upstream petroleum sector.
The various industry partners pledged a renewed commitment to improve upon the sector and ensure that sustainability was enhanced.
The Ghana National Gas Company (Ghana Gas) scheduled a maintenance shutdown of its Atuabo Gas Processing Plant and offshore facilities from August 16 to August 30, 2025.
The two-week shutdown was to perform critical maintenance to enhance operational efficiency. Despite this, there was energy stability with the provision of alternative supplies.
Regional efforts combated illegal mining
Illegal mining, a major land degradation and environmentally unfriendly activity, by some unscrupulous Ghanaians and foreigners was not left out in the scheme of things on the itinerary of the Western Regional Minister.
Some 56 arrests in Kadadwen and Tarkwa Nsuaem in that regard to ensure protection of the environment.
The Western Region prepared for the implementation of the National Sanitation Day tackling public health amid Mpox outbreak responses.
The Regional Risk Communication committee was upbeat on ensuring that well-tailored educational and awareness creation was effectively carried out to contain the disease.
Spotlighted cultural vibrancy through festivals like Ankos and Kofi Kinata’s homecoming events dazed many from far and near.
These happenings blended music, heritage, and leadership to foster unity in Takoradi and beyond as people from all walks of life gathered to socialize and rejuvenate associations, relationships and friendships.
The Ankos Masquerade Festival lit up Takoradi’s streets on December 25-26, drawing thousands with colourful costumes, music parades, and masquerade troupes celebrating Sekondi-Takoradi’s cultural roots.
From toddlers in mini costumes to elders, Ankos, became the toast of most people while, boosting tourism and local economy.
Highlife star Kofi Kinata hosted “Made in Taadi” on December 20, a signature concert honouring his Western Region heritage.
Preceded by a youth empowerment seminar on December 19 and followed by a Corporate Highlife Show on December 26, the event amplified local music scenes.
House of Chiefs
After years of impasse about who leads the Western Regional House of Chiefs, 2025 blessed the Region with Nana Kobena Nketsia V as the President of the House.
A move, that restored traditional harmony and would ensure coordinated leadership for accelerated growth.
The House of Chiefs, later in July, paid a courtesy call on President pledging full support for national reset and development in the resource-rich area.
The Chiefs emphasised community-driven approach to rebuilding resilient and self-sustaining communities in the years ahead.
GNA
Edited by Justina Paaga/Benjamin Mensah