The Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly (CCMA) has secured major commitments from the government, private individuals and development partners to support key projects under its eight-year development plan spanning 2026 to 2033.
The commitments were made during a forum and fundraising event held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Lancaster Hotel in Accra, where stakeholders gathered to mobilize resources and partnerships to accelerate development in the historic coastal city.
Speaking to the media after the event, the Metropolitan Chief Executive for Cape Coast, George Justice Arthur, described the programme as successful and expressed appreciation to stakeholders for supporting the Assembly’s long-term development agenda.
The Assembly launched the eight-year development plan on October 9, 2025, to strengthen local development financing and promote sustainable economic growth in the metropolis.
Mr. Arthur explained that five strategic projects have been prioritized for implementation in 2026. These include the construction of a Children’s Park, the redevelopment of the Place of the Bond of 1844, the redevelopment of the John Atta Mills Library, upgrading the Cape Coast Metropolitan Hospital into a regional hospital, and the construction of a Cape Coast Museum.
High-Profile Adoptions and Partnerships
Mayor Arthur noted that several stakeholders have already adopted some of the projects. He revealed that the government, led by President John Dramani Mahama, has taken up the refurbishment of the Cape Coast Metro Hospital and the development of the Atta Mills Library.
Additionally, the Children’s Library project has been adopted by the Sanahin of the Oguaa Traditional Area, while the Association of Concerned Citizens of Cape Coast (ACA) and its associates have committed to developing the Children’s Park.
Some eminent citizens of Cape Coast have also pledged their support to the redevelopment of the Cape Coast Museum.
Former Electoral Commission Chairperson and Board Member of Ghana Gas, Madam Charlotte Osei, has also taken on the renovation of the historic Victoria Park, and the ‘refurbishment’ of the Fosu Lagoon, which formed part of the discussions at the forum.
In a show of local leadership, Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly Members collectively donated GH¢20,000 during the event to support sanitation efforts in the metropolis, particularly in waste management.
A Vision Rooted in History
Mr. George Justice Arthur emphasized that Cape Coast’s rich historical and cultural heritage places it at the centre of Ghana’s tourism industry. He noted that the city served as the first capital of the Gold Coast from 1663 to 1877 and played a crucial role in Ghana’s nationalist history.
He also referenced the founding of the Aborigines’ Rights Protection Society in Cape Coast in 1897, which advocated for indigenous land rights and significantly contributed to the country’s struggle toward self-governance.
The Mayor empahsized that the Assembly’s vision is to transform Cape Coast into a vibrant and modern city while preserving its historical heritage and promoting tourism, entrepreneurship and investment.
“Our plan is built on inclusivity, sustainability and prosperity for all. We want to make Cape Coast attractive to investors by improving infrastructure, sanitation, tourism sites and public services,” the MCE stated.
Calls for Review and Improvement
While the plan was widely lauded, the Member of Parliament for Cape Coast North, Dr. Kwamena Minta Nyarku, called for a strategic review of the development plan, noting that many of the proposed projects appear to be concentrated in Cape Coast South.
Former Chief of Staff, Nana Ato Dadzie, also commended the Assembly for initiating the long-term development plan and urged authorities to consider redeveloping old buildings in the metropolis to improve the city’s appearance, attract tourists and generate revenue.
The Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly believes collaboration between government, traditional authorities, investors and citizens will be crucial in mobilizing the needed resources to successfully implement the eight-year development agenda and drive sustainable growth in the metropolis.
In Attendance
The forum was chaired by Mr. Samuel Brew-Butler, Chairman of the Eight-Year Development Plan Implementation Committee and attended by dignitaries, including Nana Kwesi Egyin II, Ninfahen representing the Oguaamanhen.
Also present were Assembly Members, the Conference of Heads of Basic Schools (CoHBS) – Cape Coast Chapter, representatives from the Ghana Education Service Central Regional Directorate, investors, and other patriotic stakeholders.
READ ALSO: CCMA launches 8-Year Development Plan to Spur Growth in Cape Coast
Source: Alhaji Ibrahim/ATLFMNEWS
