West Akim Municipal Assembly
- Name of MMDA: Akuapem South Municipal Assembly
- Region: Eastern Region
- Type of Assembly: Municipal Assembly
- Capital: Aburi
- Year Established: It was originally established in 1988 under Legislative Instrument (L.I. 1421). It was later elevated to a Municipal status in 2008, and its modern borders were shaped in 2012 when the Upper West Akim District was split off.
The West Akim Municipal Assembly (WAMA) is one of the administrative municipalities located in the Eastern Region of Ghana. The Municipality was originally established as the West Akim District Assembly in 1988 under Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 1421 and was subsequently elevated to municipal status in 2007 under L.I. 2050, becoming operational as a municipality in 2008. In 2012, a substantial portion of the Municipality was carved out to create the Upper West Akim District Assembly. Asamankese serves as the administrative capital and remains the principal political, commercial and institutional centre of the Municipality.
The Municipality is situated in the southern part of the Eastern Region, approximately 75 kilometres north-west of Accra. It shares boundaries with Kwaebibirem Municipal to the north, Birim South District to the west, Agona West Municipal, Effutu Municipal and Ga East Municipal to the south, and Suhum Municipal and Upper West Akim District to the east. Its location provides important connections between the Eastern Region, Greater Accra and parts of the Central Region. Asamankese is also strategically located off the main Accra–Kumasi trunk road, making the Municipality an important centre for transportation, trade and agricultural distribution.
In terms of land area, the Municipality covers approximately 559 square kilometres. The landscape is generally undulating, with elevations ranging from about 60 metres to 460 metres above sea level. The northern part of the Municipality includes portions of the Atewa Range Extension Forest Reserve, while several rivers, including the Ayensu, Ntoasu, Abukyen, Akora and Supon, drain the area. The 2021 Population and Housing Census recorded a total population of 120,145, comprising 58,268 males and 61,877 females. Females therefore constituted approximately 51.5% of the population, compared with 48.5% males.
The economy of West Akim is predominantly driven by agriculture, commerce, mining, forestry, livestock production and small-scale industry. Agriculture employs a significant proportion of the workforce, with cocoa, oil palm, plantain, cassava, maize, cocoyam, vegetables and other food crops cultivated throughout the Municipality. Cocoa is particularly important to the local economy, while oil palm and food-crop farming provide additional sources of household income and food security. The Municipality also has opportunities for agro-processing and value addition because of its substantial agricultural production.
The Municipality also possesses mineral resources, including gold and diamond. Diamond mining is associated with areas such as Anomakwadwo, while gold mining occurs around Akanteng and Awaham. Sand winning and stone quarrying are also undertaken in parts of the Municipality. These natural resources contribute to local economic activity but also create environmental-management challenges that require careful regulation and sustainable resource use.
Asamankese is the Municipality’s principal administrative, commercial and institutional capital. Other major communities and settlements include Osenase, Brekumanso, Adeiso, Akanteng, Awaham, Anomakwadwo, Pabi-Wawase, Sukrong-Amanfi, Bunso, Kofi Pare, Kwao Bondi and other agricultural communities. Asamankese functions as the main commercial centre, while Osenase and Brekumanso serve as important secondary centres within the Municipality. The network of rural settlements supports the Municipality’s agricultural economy and supplies farm produce to Asamankese and markets beyond the Municipality.
Administratively, the West Akim Municipal Assembly is the highest political, administrative and planning authority within the Municipality. It is responsible for local governance, development planning, spatial planning, infrastructure provision, environmental management, public health, sanitation, agricultural development and internal revenue mobilisation. The Municipality operates through three Zonal Councils: Asamankese Zonal Council, Osenase Zonal Council and Brekumanso Zonal Council, which provide a decentralised framework for bringing local administration and development activities closer to residents.
The Assembly’s governance structure comprises elected Assembly Members representing the various electoral areas, Government Appointees, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) as the political and administrative head, and the Member of Parliament for the West Akim Constituency. The General Assembly serves as the principal deliberative and policy-formulating organ of the Municipality. The Municipality has 32 Electoral Areas, with its Assembly structure comprising elected representatives, Government Appointees, the MCE and the MP. The Municipality also has approximately 150 Unit Committees, providing a grassroots mechanism for community participation in local governance.
West Akim possesses considerable natural, agricultural, historical and cultural assets. The northern portions of the Municipality’s landscape are associated with the Atewa Range Extension Forest Reserve, while its numerous rivers, forest resources and agricultural lands provide opportunities for environmental conservation, agro-tourism and sustainable natural-resource management. The Municipality also contains interesting natural and cultural attractions, including caves and rock formations. Among these are the Kwaku Yirebi-Odeng Cave near Sukrong-Amanfi and the Yokpeh Cave near Bunso, as well as traditional sites and other local attractions that could be developed for tourism.
The Municipality’s agricultural base provides strong opportunities for cocoa production, oil-palm cultivation, food processing and agro-industrial development. Cocoa is particularly significant, with the Municipality identified as an important cocoa-producing area. Its location within relatively easy reach of Accra and other major markets gives farmers and businesses opportunities to supply urban consumers. Investment in cocoa processing, palm-oil processing, fruit and vegetable processing, storage facilities and agricultural logistics could create employment and increase local value addition.
The Municipality faces several development and environmental challenges, including poor feeder roads, inadequate drainage and sanitation infrastructure, environmental degradation, pressure on forest resources, illegal or poorly regulated mining, limited agro-processing capacity and inadequate infrastructure in some rural communities. Mining, sand winning and other extractive activities can contribute to land degradation and water pollution when not properly managed. The Municipality also needs continued investment in roads linking farming communities to markets, as well as improved storage and processing facilities to reduce post-harvest losses.
West Akim nevertheless has strong opportunities for agro-industrial development, commercial agriculture, mining-related services, tourism, manufacturing, logistics, real estate and private-sector investment. Its strategic location, substantial agricultural base, mineral resources, proximity to Accra and established commercial centre at Asamankese provide a strong foundation for economic expansion. The Assembly’s recent initiatives, including the development of a 24-hour economy market in Asamankese, indicate efforts to strengthen commercial activity and create new opportunities for traders and businesses.
With Asamankese as its administrative capital, the West Akim Municipal Assembly occupies an important position in Ghana’s Eastern Region. Its combination of agricultural wealth, cocoa production, mineral resources, forest ecosystems, established commercial activity and proximity to Greater Accra makes it an important administrative, agricultural, commercial and emerging industrial hub. Continued investment in roads, agro-processing, environmental protection, markets and social infrastructure will be central to unlocking the Municipality’s development potential.
Key Profile Data
- Population: 120,145
- Male: 58,268
- Female: 61,877
- Female population share: 51.5%
- Male population share: 48.5%
- Land area: Approximately 559.9 km²
- Capital: Asamankese
- Zonal Councils: 3
- Asamankese Zonal Council
- Osenase Zonal Council
- Brekumanso Zonal Council
- Electoral Areas: 32
- Unit Committees: Approximately 150
- Parliamentary Constituency: 1 (West Akim Constituency)
- Year established as District: 1988
- Year elevated to Municipal status: 2007/2008
- Establishing legislation: L.I. 1421 (District); L.I. 2050 (Municipal)
- Region: Eastern Region
- Major economic sectors: Agriculture, commerce, mining, forestry, livestock and small-scale industry
- Major cash crop: Cocoa
- Other major crops: Oil palm, plantain, cassava, maize, cocoyam and vegetables
- Major mineral resources: Gold and diamond
- Major communities: Asamankese, Osenase, Brekumanso, Akanteng, Awaham, Anomakwadwo, Pabi-Wawase, Sukrong-Amanfi and Bunso
- Major natural assets: Atewa Range Extension Forest Reserve, Ayensu River and other river systems
- Tourism assets: Kwaku Yirebi-Odeng Cave, Yokpeh Cave and other natural and cultural sites
- Major commercial centre: Asamankese
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- Total Land Area: Approximately 559.9 sq. km.
- Population: 120,145 residents, according to the official 2021 Population and Housing Census. This includes 61,877 females and 58,268 males. The 2026 Composite Budget gives a projected population of 123,804, comprising 60,043 males (48.49%) and 63,761 females (51.51%).
- Major Towns/Communities: Asamankese, Osenase, Brekumanso, Akanteng, Anomakwadwo, Awaham, Amaako, Adeiso-area communities, and other surrounding settlements. Asamankese is the principal administrative and commercial centre of the Municipality.
Boundaries
- North: Denkyembour District
- East: Suhum Municipal Assembly and Upper West Akim District
- West: Asene Manso Akroso District
- South: Agona East District and neighbouring areas toward the Awutu/Senya and Greater Accra side
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- Municipal Chief Executive (MCE): Hon. Paulina Akabila.
- Presiding Member: Hon. David Apetsi. He is identified as the Presiding Member in the Assembly’s approved 2025 Composite Budget.
- Member of Parliament: Hon. Owen Kwame Frimpong, Member of Parliament for the Lower West Akim Constituency.
Assembly Structure
The West Akim Municipal Assembly is the highest political and administrative authority within the Municipality. It performs deliberative, legislative and executive functions and is responsible for coordinating local development.
The Assembly is headed politically by the Municipal Chief Executive, while the Municipal Coordinating Director heads the administrative structure. The General Assembly operates through an Executive Committee and statutory and other sub-committees responsible for areas such as development planning, finance and administration, social services, works, and justice and security.
At the sub-municipal level, the Assembly has three Zonal Councils:
- Asamankese Zonal Council
- Osenase Zonal Council
- Brekumanso Zonal Council
These structures facilitate grassroots participation, community mobilisation, local revenue mobilisation and the implementation of development programmes.
The Municipality is represented in Parliament through one parliamentary constituency and has 32 electoral areas for Municipal Assembly representation.
Assembly Membership
The Assembly’s official profile states that the General Assembly comprises 32 elected Assembly Members and 14 government-appointed members, including the Municipal Chief Executive, with the Member of Parliament participating as an ex-officio member.
The composition can therefore be presented as:
- 32 elected Assembly Members
- 14 Government-appointed members, including the MCE
- 1 Member of Parliament serving as an ex-officio member
This produces 46 Assembly members excluding the MP, or 49 participants when the MP is included in the broader institutional composition. The Assembly’s website, however, describes the Assembly as having a total of 48 members while separately listing the MP, so the figures should not be treated as 49 voting Assembly Members.
Assembly Membership: 48 members, comprising 32 elected members and 14 government-appointed members including the MCE, with the Member of Parliament serving as an ex-officio member. The Assembly operates through 32 electoral areas and three Zonal Councils.
- Key Sectors of Focus:
- Agriculture & Agribusiness – Cocoa, cassava, maize, and vegetable farming; promotion of irrigation, mechanization, and agro-processing.
- Infrastructure & Transport – Road rehabilitation, bridges, and drainage systems to connect farming communities to Asamankese and other markets.
- Health & Social Services – Expansion of CHPS compounds, upgrading of Asamankese Government Hospital, and improved sanitation systems.
- Education – Classroom expansion, ICT integration, and vocational training for youth.
- Local Economic Development – MSME support, entrepreneurship training, and revenue mobilization.
- Environmental Management – Waste management, afforestation, and climate adaptation programmes.
- Flagship Projects & Programmes:
- Agriculture: Establishment of cassava and maize processing centres; farmer support with improved seedlings and mechanization.
- Infrastructure: Rehabilitation of feeder roads linking Asamankese to surrounding farming communities; construction of bridges and culverts to reduce flooding.
- Health: Upgrading Asamankese Government Hospital, expanding CHPS compounds, and maternal health outreach programmes.
- Education: ICT labs for schools, vocational training centres, and classroom blocks in rural and peri-urban communities.
- Local Economic Development: Business counselling for MSMEs, entrepreneurship training, and automation of IGF collection.
- Environment: Waste segregation and recycling projects, afforestation campaigns, and flood control measures.
- SDGs Alignment:
- SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): Agricultural modernization and agro-processing to improve food security.
- SDG 3 (Good Health & Well-being): Strengthening healthcare facilities and maternal health services.
- SDG 4 (Quality Education): Classroom expansion, ICT integration, and vocational training.
- SDG 6 (Clean Water & Sanitation): Boreholes, rural water projects, and improved sanitation coverage.
- SDG 8 (Decent Work & Economic Growth): SME support, youth employment, and agro-industrial expansion.
- SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure): Road rehabilitation, ICT integration, and agro-processing facilities.
- SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities & Communities): Flood control, urban renewal, and community safety.
- SDG 13 (Climate Action): Climate resilience projects, afforestation, and disaster risk reduction.
- SDG 15 (Life on Land): Forest conservation, watershed protection, and biodiversity preservation.
- Main Economic Activities:
- Agriculture – Cocoa, cassava, maize, plantain, and vegetable farming dominate, with poultry and livestock production supporting rural livelihoods.
- Trading & commerce – Asamankese Market serves as a major commercial hub for food crops, livestock, and household goods.
- Agro-processing – Cassava flour, gari production, palm oil extraction, maize milling, and poultry feed processing are common.
- Artisanal activities – Carpentry, tailoring, mechanics, and small-scale manufacturing provide employment.
- Transport & logistics – Strategic location along the Accra–Asamankese corridor makes the municipality a transit hub for goods and passengers.
- Key Investment Opportunities:
- Agro-processing plants – Expansion of cassava, maize, and palm oil processing facilities for local consumption and export.
- Market infrastructure – Modernization of Asamankese Market and satellite markets to boost trading activities.
- Agricultural mechanization – Tractor services, irrigation systems, and improved seed distribution.
- Logistics & warehousing – Warehousing and cold chain facilities to support agricultural exports and food distribution.
- Real estate development – Affordable housing estates and commercial complexes due to proximity to Accra.
- Tourism promotion – Cultural heritage sites, eco-tourism, and festivals in Asamankese and surrounding communities.
- Business Support Services:
- Business Advisory Centre (BAC) – Provides training, entrepreneurship support, and SME development.
- Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA) – Offers financial and technical support for small businesses.
- Rural banks & microfinance institutions – Provide credit facilities to farmers, traders, and artisans.
- NGO & donor programs – Initiatives in agriculture, women’s empowerment, and youth employment.
- Farmer cooperatives & market associations – Support collective bargaining, advocacy, and access to inputs.
- Health Facilities:
- Asamankese Government Hospital – The main referral facility serving the municipality.
- Health Centres – Located in Osenase, Abamkrom, and other communities, providing outpatient and maternal health services.
- CHPS Compounds – Spread across rural areas to deliver primary healthcare closer to residents.
- Private Clinics & Pharmacies – Complement government facilities with specialized care and laboratory services.
- Educational Institutions:
- Basic Schools – Numerous public and private primary and JHS across Asamankese and surrounding communities.
- Senior High Schools – Institutions such as Asamankese SHS and Osenase SHS serve the municipality.
- Vocational & Technical Training – Skills development centers focusing on carpentry, tailoring, ICT, and agriculture.
- Private Training Institutes – Provide ICT, business, and technical courses for youth employment.
- Road Network Condition:
- Major Roads – The Accra–Asamankese corridor is tarred but requires periodic maintenance.
- Feeder Roads – Many rural roads are untarred, becoming muddy and inaccessible during rainy seasons.
- Transport Challenges – Poor feeder roads affect access to farms, schools, and health facilities.
- Ongoing Projects: Road rehabilitation, culvert construction, and drainage works to improve connectivity and reduce flooding.
- Water & Sanitation Coverage:
- Water Supply – Boreholes, hand-dug wells, and small-town water systems provide potable water.
- Sanitation Facilities – Public toilets and household latrines expanded to reduce open defecation.
- Waste Management – Door-to-door collection in Asamankese township, communal skips, and private contractors like Zoomlion.
- Challenges: Irregular waste collection, poor disposal practices, and limited recycling facilities in rural areas.
- Waste Management Systems:
- Door-to-door collection – Managed by private contractors in Asamankese township to reduce indiscriminate dumping.
- Communal skips – Placed in densely populated areas to serve households without direct collection services.
- Recycling initiatives – School-based waste segregation, small-scale plastic recycling, and composting projects.
- Challenges: Irregular collection schedules, inadequate disposal sites, and poor compliance with sanitation bye-laws in rural communities.
- Climate Adaptation Efforts:
- Flood control – Construction of storm drains and desilting of waterways to reduce seasonal flooding in Asamankese and Osenase.
- Afforestation projects – Tree planting campaigns in schools, parks, and degraded lands to combat deforestation.
- Watershed protection – Safeguarding river basins and water sources to ensure sustainable supply.
- Community sensitization – Education campaigns on waste disposal, flood preparedness, and climate resilience.
- Urban greening – Development of green spaces and beautification projects to improve air quality and reduce heat.
- Environmental Challenges:
- Deforestation – Logging, farming, and settlement expansion threaten forest reserves and river catchment areas.
- Flooding – Poor drainage systems in Asamankese and riverine communities cause seasonal floods.
- Waste disposal – Indiscriminate dumping of plastics and refuse in open spaces and drains.
- Soil erosion – Farming on slopes without proper conservation measures leads to land degradation.
- Urbanization impacts – Rapid expansion of Asamankese increases pressure on waste management, water supply, and green spaces.
- Public Engagement Strategies:
- Town hall meetings – Regularly organized in Asamankese, Osenase, and Abamkrom to discuss budgets, development projects, and local concerns.
- Community durbars – Traditional gatherings used to engage residents, strengthen accountability, and solicit feedback on governance.
- Radio & local media – Local FM stations provide civic education on sanitation, health, and Assembly initiatives.
- Digital platforms – WhatsApp groups and social media pages mobilize residents and share announcements.
- Participatory planning – Citizens involved in prioritizing projects and resource allocation, especially in farming and trading communities.
- Youth & Women Inclusion Mechanisms:
- Youth employment programs – Skills training, entrepreneurship support, and job creation initiatives targeting young farmers, traders, and artisans.
- Women’s cooperatives – Support groups for women traders, farmers, and service providers to access credit and training.
- Scholarship schemes – Targeted support for girls and vulnerable youth in secondary and tertiary education.
- Microfinance initiatives – Credit facilities for women-led businesses and SMEs in Asamankese and nearby towns.
- Youth councils – Platforms for young people to voice concerns and contribute to policy discussions.
| 1 | Beposo |
| 2 | Abuchen |
| 3 | Krofofrom |
| 4 | Odjarde |
| 5 | Bronoso/Christian Quarters |
| 6 | Abaase |
| 7 | Aninasu |
| 8 | Asamanketewa |
| 9 | Anum |
| 10 | Roman Quarters |
| 11 | Asikafo Amantem |
| 12 | Amanfrom No. 2 |
| 13 | Sabon Zongo |
| 14 | Bunso |
| 15 | Topease |
| 16 | Apampramu No. 1 |
| 17 | Densuakwa |
| 18 | Nkurakan |
| 19 | Kakoase |
| 20 | Apampramu No. 2 |
| 21 | Nyankomase |
| 22 | Akanteng |
| 23 | Kobriso |
| 24 | Akwadum/Asuofori |
| 25 | Awaham |
| 26 | Ekoso |
| 27 | Akim Boso |
| 28 | Brekumaso |
| 29 | Amako |
| 30 | Oworam |
| 31 | Pabi |
| 32 | Afranse |