Stories and facts
With its capital in Sakumono, the Tema West Municipal is home to a dynamic mix of urban and rural communities, making it a melting pot of cultures and activities.
Situated between Latitudes 5°42"00' N and Longitudes 0°00"30' W and Latitudes 5°36"20' S and Longitudes 0°7"10' W, the Tema West Municipal covers a total land area of approximately 66.8 square km. This area represents almost 2.1 percent of the Greater Accra Region's total land size. It shares its boundaries with neighboring districts and municipalities, such as Krowor Municipality to the west, Adentan Municipal to the northwest, Kpone Katamanso Municipal to the north, Ashaiman Municipality to the northeast, and the Tema Metropolitan to the east. To the southeast lies the Gulf of Guinea, providing the region with access to the Atlantic Ocean.
As of the latest 2021 Population and Housing Census, the Tema West Municipal Assembly is home to a vibrant population of 196,224 individuals. Among them, 96,846 are males, while 99,378 are females, showcasing a relatively balanced gender distribution in the area. This diverse population contributes to the dynamic nature of the municipality.
Though predominantly a semi-industrial area, the Tema West Municipal showcases a strong presence of peri-urban agriculture. Farmers in the region engage in year-round farming activities, with an emphasis on crop farming and livestock rearing. The fertile lands around the Ramsar site and inner city gardening areas allow for the cultivation of various crops such as cucumber, lettuce, cabbage, radish, parsley, sweet pepper, and cauliflower. Other staples like chili pepper, bonnet pepper, tomato, ‘gboma’, ‘ayoyo,’ amaranthus, onion, and okra are cultivated in areas like Borteyman, Klagon, and Sakumono.
The municipality's comparative advantage lies in the production of fresh maize, drawing market women from distant places. Livestock farming, including poultry (local and exotic), micro livestock (grass cutter, rabbit, and guinea fowl), small ruminants, cattle, and pigs, also thrives in the region. Aquaculture, particularly catfish and tilapia farming, is a significant contributor to the local economy. An afforestation project, in collaboration with the Forestry Commission, Game and Wildlife, and the Environmental Protection Agency, has been established along the ‘manahuma’ river, which flows into the ‘sakumo’ lagoon, enhancing ecological balance in the area.
The Department of Social Welfare and Community Development plays a pivotal role in enhancing the well-being of residents in the Tema West Municipal. Originally established in 1946, its mandate has evolved over time, with a current focus on social services, health, housing, education, and agriculture. The integration of the Department of Community Development and the Department of Social Welfare at the local level has enabled a more holistic approach to community development initiatives.
The Central Administration Department serves as the secretariat of the Tema West Municipal Assembly, providing support services and efficient general administration. Meanwhile, the Physical Planning Department plays a crucial role in ensuring the sustainable development of land and human settlements within the district. By promoting judicious land use and environmentally friendly practices, the department aims to enhance the quality of life for residents.
The Tema West Municipal Assembly stands as a shining example of Ghana's commitment to regional development and community empowerment. With a diverse population, a thriving agricultural sector, and a focus on social welfare, the municipality is poised for continued growth and prosperity. As it continues to develop and evolve, the Tema West Municipal will undoubtedly play an integral role in shaping the future of the Greater Accra Region and Ghana as a whole.
