Stories and facts
Established in 1988 by Legislative Instrument (LI) 1426, it is one of the 261 Metropolitan, Municipal, District Assemblies in Ghana. Covering an area of 60 square kilometres and bordered by three other municipalities, New Juaben South is home to a diverse population of 125,256 people, according to the 2021 population and housing census.
The New Juaben South Municipality lies between longitudes 1030' West and 0030' East and latitudes 60 and 70 North, with Koforidua serving as its capital. The area falls within the Semi-deciduous Forest Zone, experiencing a bi-modal rainy season from May/June to September/October, with an annual rainfall ranging between 1200mm and 1700mm. The dry season lasts from November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 32°C. The mild temperatures and lush forests make the municipality an attractive destination for tourists.
The land in New Juaben South is gently undulating, with elevations ranging from 152 meters to 198 meters above mean sea level. The municipality is primarily drained by the Densu River and its tributaries, such as Bompom, Obopakko, Afena, and Nsuokwao. However, human activities, including estate development and improper waste disposal, have taken a toll on these water bodies, leading to flooding issues in some towns.
The municipality falls within the semi-deciduous rainforest zone, characterized by tall trees with evergreen undergrowth. In the past, it was abundant with economic trees, but encroachments and other factors have reduced their presence. Nevertheless, efforts are being made to conserve and protect the remaining forests, making the region a significant tourist attraction.
New Juaben South boasts a relatively adequate road network, with a total of 596km of feeder roads and 298km of urban roads. The compact size of 110km2 contributes to a road density of 3.2km, allowing for efficient movement of people, goods, and services. The municipality also houses various market centers, which provide opportunities for trade and commerce.
The New Juaben South Municipality is home to a heterogeneous population, with a high dominance of Akans and Ga-Adangbes. Other ethnic groups, such as Ewes and those from northern regions, also contribute significantly to the population. Christianity is the predominant religion, followed by Islam and traditional beliefs.
The economy of New Juaben South is diverse, with the service sector taking the lead at 39.9%, followed by industrial manufacturing and processing at 26.7%, and agriculture at 26.1%. The municipality presents numerous investment opportunities, especially in agro-processing and tourism. The strategic location, adjacent to other agricultural hubs, provides access to raw materials, making it ideal for agro-industrial ventures. Additionally, the untapped potential of totouristttractions, such as the Kentenkeren Waterfall, offers opportunities for the hospitality sector and adventure tourism.
New Juaben South is known as an educational hub in Ghana, hosting renowned institutions like Koforidua Technical University, All Nations University, Ghana Telecom University College, and Nursing and Midwifery Training College. These institutions attract students from across the globe and contribute to the skill development of the region.
Despite its potential, New Juaben South faces several challenges that hinder its progress. The poor road network, undeveloped tourist sites, and security concerns related to flooding, land disputes, and inadequate streetlights are some of the pressing issues that need attention to promote sustainable development in the municipality.
New Juaben South Municipality is a land of promise, ripe with opportunities for economic growth and tourism development. With its lush forests, diverse culture, and thriving educational institutions, the municipality is well-positioned to flourish and become a prime destination for investment and tourism in Ghana. By addressing its challenges and building on its strengths, New Juaben South can pave the way for a prosperous future for its residents and visitors alike.
