The Western Regional House of Chiefs is urging a more proactive role in shaping Ghana’s development trajectory, with Paramount Chief Nana Kwabena Nketia V calling for the completion of stalled infrastructure projects and stronger environmental protection.
In a meeting with President John Dramani Mahama, Nana Nketia, who also chairs the Western Regional House of Chiefs, praised the government for recent economic improvements, including the rebound of the Ghanaian cedi. However, he stressed that economic stability must translate into tangible development at the local level.
> “The Western Region remains vital to Ghana’s growth,” he said. “Yet, many projects in our communities are abandoned. We must complete them if we are to deliver real progress to the people.”
The chief’s remarks reflect growing concern among traditional leaders about delayed infrastructure and missed opportunities in resource-rich regions.
Nana Nketia also applauded the newly announced manganese processing plant, citing its potential to provide employment for the youth and boost local industry. However, he cautioned that economic gains must not come at the expense of the environment.
In a bold policy suggestion, the Essikado Chief proposed a ban on rubber imports as a means to protect Ghana’s ecosystems. He warned of the devastating impact of foreign materials and poor land management practices, adding that land degradation caused by illegal mining—galamsey—is becoming unsustainable.
> “Our land is suffering. We cannot continue this way,” Nana Nketia declared, pledging the House of Chiefs’ full support in the fight against illegal mining.
He specifically commended the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources for his intensified efforts to clamp down on galamsey operations, and called for stronger collaboration between the state and traditional authorities to protect Ghana’s natural heritage.
In response, President Mahama acknowledged the key role of chiefs in grassroots governance and development, announcing plans to enhance their involvement in local decision-making under his administration.
> “You are the custodians of the land and culture,” the President said. “Your voice matters not just in tradition, but in policy, in planning, and in ensuring development reaches the people.”
The President assured that his government’s ‘Big Push’ infrastructure agenda would prioritise strategic roads in the Western Region to improve transport, boost local trade, and stimulate economic activity.
On industrialisation, he reaffirmed his policy to process Ghana’s raw materials locally, including manganese and bauxite, before exporting them—a shift aimed at value addition, job creation, and increased national revenue.
> “We cannot continue to export raw wealth,” President Mahama said. “We must build factories, create jobs, and retain value within our borders.”
The engagement between the President and the House of Chiefs marks a significant step in deepening state–chieftaincy relations, with both parties aligning on the goals of inclusive development and environmental stewardship.
As Ghana looks toward more sustainable growth, traditional leaders like Nana Kwabena Nketia V are positioning themselves as vital stakeholders not just in custom, but in the country’s future.
