Sekondi: The Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA) received GHS 19,551,160.34 from the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) last year to implement a series of development projects across the metropolis. Mr. Frederick Faustinus Faidoo, the Mayor of the assembly, disclosed this during a press briefing in Sekondi, emphasizing the strategic allocation of these funds to various sectors.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Mayor highlighted that 25 percent of the received funds were directed towards the 24-hour economy market initiative, while 20 percent was allocated to legacy infrastructure projects. Additionally, 10 percent each was designated for education infrastructure, sanitation, water supply, and health initiatives, with five percent reserved for administrative purposes.
Mr. Faidoo noted that more than 14 projects have been initiated, including the construction of classroom blocks, CHPs compounds, and borehole drilling and mechanization. The assembly's premises and the mayor's residence also underwent repairs and painting. Many of these projects, which commenced in October last year, are nearing completion, with some already finalized and in use.
The mayor also discussed the allocation of GHS 143,187.60 for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), which was used to provide livelihood support items to 21 beneficiaries and assist eight individuals with education, medical care, and small-scale business activities. Furthermore, two PWD associations received support to implement their programs.
On street lighting, Mr. Faidoo stated that 11 communities benefited from new streetlights, and faulty ones were repaired. Beneficiary areas included Essikado main street, European town, Ketan main street, and New Takoradi, among others.
Regarding waste management, the mayor reported an average daily generation of 168.9 tons of solid waste, with household waste accounting for 118.7 tons. He raised concerns about waste overflow at communal dump sites due to insufficient operational vehicles and poor site management. The assembly plans to enforce sanitation bylaws, enhance waste collection, and collaborate with Salifu Plastic Recycling Enterprise to transform plastic waste into jobs.
In addressing livestock control, Mr. Faidoo mentioned ongoing prosecutions of 12 herdsmen for bylaw violations. For disaster management, interventions from NNADMO include intensified public education and evaluation of 21 flood-prone areas, with critical drainage systems and a lagoon desilted and dredged.
The Department of Agriculture is advancing modern agricultural practices, with initiatives like the Feed Ghana program expected to distribute day-old chicks in July 2026. The tree crop development program will provide coconut and oil palm seedlings for the 2026 planting season.
On infrastructure, Mr. Faidoo reported significant progress on road projects, with 92.75 percent completion achieved on seven selected roads by Viabuild Africa NV. Additionally, the Green Cities Infrastructure and Energy program is improving 28 roads and drains to enhance mobility and flood resilience.
For market and transport infrastructure, the assembly plans to construct a bus terminal, a multi-purpose car park, redevelop haulage truck terminals, and upgrade several markets and lorry stations to boost economic activities in the metropolis.