Stories and facts
The population of the Municipality according to 2021 population and housing census stands at 120,145 with 58,268 males and 61,877 females.
The West Akim Municipal, one of the 33 municipalities and districts that constitute the Eastern Region, is strategically positioned between longitudes 0 degrees 25 minutes West and 0 degrees 47 minutes West, and latitudes 5 degrees 40 minutes North. Its administrative center, Asamankese, serves as a focal point for the region's activities, situated 75 kilometres North-West of Accra, accessible via the main Accra-Kumasi trunk road. The municipal boundaries connect it with the Kwaebibrem Municipal to the north, Birim South District to the west, Agona West Municipal, Effutu Municipal, and Ga East Municipal to the south, and Suhum and Nsawam Adoagyiri Municipals to the east.
The municipality's topography is a masterpiece of undulating terrains, with elevations ranging from 60 meters to 460 meters above sea level. The Atewa Range, a prominent geological feature, graces the Northern part of the Municipality, hosting the Atewa Range Extension Forest Reserve. This undisturbed habitat shelters a plethora of flora and fauna and serves as a testament to the region's commitment to conservation.
The West Akim Municipal enjoys the embrace of numerous rivers, including Ayensu, Ntoasu, Abukyen, Akora, Supon, Obotwene/Ansing, and Adeiso, which meander in a southern direction. These waterways, predominantly sourced from the Atewa Range, are sustained by the double maxima rainfall pattern typical of the wet-semi-equatorial climatic zone. Rainfall, ranging from 1,238mm to 1,660mm, paints the landscape with lush greens, fostering a robust plant growth cycle. The region experiences two distinct rainy seasons, from March to June and from September to October, while average temperatures range from 25.20°C to 27.90°C.
The West Akim Municipal's semi-deciduous forest is a treasure trove of towering trees, including Odum, Wawa, Sapele, Obeche, Onyina, Emire, and more. Amidst the grandeur of this vegetation lie traces of secondary forests, remnants of past farming, lumbering, construction, and mining activities. The district's soil diversity is reflected in four main groups: Kumasi-Asuansi/Nta-Ofin, Nsaba-Swedru/Nta-Ofin, Bekwai-Nzima/Oda Soil associations, Atewa/Ansum, Adawso-Bawjiasi/Nta-Ofin, Atewiredu-Katie, and Atukrom-Asikuma/Ansum Soil Associations, Yaya-Bediesi/Bejua, Nyanao-Tinkong/Opimo, and Pimpimso-Sutawa/Bejua Soil Associations, and Chichiwere-Ayensu/Kakum and Amo-Tefle Soil Association.
The West Akim Municipal's geological composition is a testament to Ghana's resource wealth, boasting Granite and Birimian rock formations that house valuable assets like gold, clay deposits, diamonds, forests, and water resources. Anomakwadwo mines diamonds, while Akanteng and Awaham contribute to the nation's gold reserves. Additionally, sand winning and stone quarrying activities thrive within the district.
Embedded within the jurisdiction of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council's Oseawuo division, the West Akim Municipal cherishes its cultural roots. The Ohum festival is a vibrant celebration embraced by its residents, reflecting their strong ties to their heritage. The community mosaic comprises various ethnic groups, with Akans comprising 48.3%, Ewes at 20.7%, Northern-origin people making up 13.8%, and Ga-Adangbe accounting for 17.2%. These diverse cultures are united by various faiths, including Christianity (81.6%), Islam (8.5%), traditional religions (1.0%), and other beliefs (9.0%).
Within the West Akim Municipal lies an array of potential tourist attractions, a tapestry of waterfalls, ecotourism sites, caves, and traditional festivals waiting to be discovered. The municipality's offerings encompass both natural wonders and historical landmarks:
The Atewa Range Forest Reserve, nestled at the Northern end of the municipality, presents a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Three waterfalls emerge from the Atewa Range Forest, showcasing their splendor amidst untouched vegetation. Kwaku Sae, Akanteng, and Aworotenteng Falls capture the beauty of nature's cascades.
Intriguing caves, such as Kwaku Yirebi-Odeng Cave and Yokpeh Cave, offer unique underground exploration opportunities.
The local art of Stone Carved Oware, a popular Ghanaian game, adds a cultural touch to the tourism experience.
The West Akim Municipal's governance structure, guided by the Local Government Act, 1993, Act 462, is a pivotal force in shaping its destiny. Led by the Chief Executive as the political head and the Co-ordinating Director as the administrative head, the Municipal Assembly stands as the highest authority responsible for development initiation and coordination. Comprising elected members, government appointees, and parliamentary representation, the assembly employs sub-committees and zonal councils, including Asamankese, Osenase, and Brekumanso, to enhance its operational efficiency.
The Municipal Assembly is mandated to steer the municipality's development across multiple dimensions:
Planning and Development: Crafting and presenting development plans for approval while overseeing the execution of approved strategies.
Resource Mobilization: Formulating and executing plans to mobilize resources vital for comprehensive development.
Infrastructure and Services: Promoting productive activities, enhancing social development, and ensuring the development, improvement, and management of human settlements and the environment.
Security and Justice: Collaborating with security agencies to ensure public safety, access to justice, and security maintenance.
Oversight and Collaboration: Establishing working relationships with various departments, agencies, and services to ensure comprehensive governance and progress.
The West Akim Municipal, a jewel nestled within Ghana's Eastern Region, beckons travelers, investors, and enthusiasts alike to explore its vibrant landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and promising potential. From the verdant forests to the cascading waterfalls, this municipality stands poised to contribute to Ghana's growth story while preserving its unique identity and resources for generations to come.
