The Mayor of Tema, Hon. Ebi Bright, has called for renewed commitment to restoring Tema’s original vision as Ghana’s premier planned industrial city during the 69th anniversary of the Ghanaian Independence celebration.
The event brought together 1,052 learners, market women and various school cadet corps who participated in the parade. Traditional leaders of Tema, residents and dignitaries were also present for the ceremony.
Security services were represented by the Regional Commander of the Ghana Police Service, while officials from the Tema Sector of the Ghana Customs Division were in attendance. The Member of Parliament for Tema East also joined the celebration.
Activities during the celebration included gymnastics displays and cultural performances by learners, showcasing Ghana’s heritage and the talents of young people in the metropolis. Ceremonial music throughout the parade and official proceedings was provided by the band of the Ghana National Fire Service.
Addressing the gathering, the Mayor reflected on the origins of Tema, explaining that the city began as a small Ga fishing settlement known as Toma before it was transformed into a modern harbour and industrial city under the leadership of Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah.
She noted that Tema was conceived as one of the most ambitious nation-building projects of the early independence period, designed as a fully planned city with a harbour, motorway, industrial zones, housing for workers and social infrastructure.
Hon. Bright also highlighted the significance of Ghana’s national flag designed by teacher Theodosia Okoh through an open national competition, describing it as a symbol of merit and opportunity.
While celebrating national progress, the Mayor acknowledged that Tema has not yet fully realised the industrial promise envisioned at its founding. She cited the expansion of Tema Port and the renewed operations of the Tema Oil Refinery as positive developments but stressed that infrastructure renewal and stronger urban management systems are necessary.
The Mayor said the Tema Metropolitan Assembly has begun implementing reforms, including a 241-ACTIVITY DEVELOPMENT ACTION PLAN, improved disaster preparedness and measures to restore order in public spaces.
She urged residents to work together to rebuild the pride and discipline that once made Tema a model city in Ghana.
“PROSPERITY IN TEMA MUST MEAN THAT OUR INDUSTRIES THRIVE, OUR MARKETS OPERATE WITH DIGNITY AND OUR YOUNG PEOPLE CAN LOOK AT THIS CITY AND SEE A FUTURE FOR THEMSELVES,” SHE SAID.