Tagging Zongo communities with violence is misplaced – Western Regional Minister cautions

The Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has condemned in no uncertain terms, the wrong impression and perception being created about Zongo communities in Ghana.

“The impression created by some Ghanaians that Zongo communities are just fertile grounds for recruiting violent youth should not be tolerated.

“The stereotyping of these amalgamated, multitribal and densely populated areas of the country, known as Zongos, should be discouraged,” he cautioned.

According to the Minister, every community in the country plays an important role in shaping the Ghanaian society, and therefore, must not suffer unjustifiably from any form of stereotype.

He says, products of Zongo communities in Ghana have suffered unjustifiably from these stereotypes for many years, despite the visible contribution of quality human resources to nation building being churned out from these communities.

The Minister observed that many political leaders, including Ministers of state as well as decent professionals, such as Doctors, have been produced by many of these Zongo communities in Ghana.

Addressing Heads of Zongo Chiefs in Western Region, who paid a courtesy call on him at the Western Regional Coordinating Council (WRCC) on Wednesday, April 30 2025, the Minister assured the Chiefs and people of Zongo communities in Western Region, of government’s commitment to address development challenges confronting deprived communities in the Region including Zongo areas.

He said in recognition of all the challenges facing deprived communities, the government a has introduced pragmatic and proper policies required to change the narrative practically.

He mentioned the reduction of Hajj fares, an introduction of additional holiday during Eid festivities, among other manifesto pledges being implemented as practical examples of government’s commitment to listen to Ghanaians and to do what is best in the interest of Ghanaian citizens.

The Minister appealed to traditional rulers in the Region to make informed decisions in the interest of the people they lead whilst collaborating with government to implement policies tailored towards addressing challenges confronting the Region.

Joseph Nelson called for unity, peace and tranquility in the Zongo communities and in the Western Region generally.

Alhaji Ahmed Osman Maiwada Masala II, the Takoradi Zongo Chief, and President of Western Region Heads of Zongo Chiefs, who led the group to the meeting with the Minister, assured him of their commitment to establish healthy working relationship with government.

He also pledged the commitment of the group to promote peace and tranquility in Zongo communities and in the Western Region generally.

The President appealed to the Minister to intervene in cracking down drug barons and drug dealers gradually invading Zongo communities with all forms of illegal and illicit substances to market amongst the youth which is gradually destroying their lives.

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