Traditional authorities in the Wa West District are advocating for an elevation to municipal status, aiming to boost local revenue generation. The call comes as the district assembly highlights significant infrastructure projects and addresses growing road safety and security issues.
According to a report by the Ghana News Agency on May 8, 2026, the Wa West District Chief Executive, Mr. Abdul-Rahman Issahaku, outlined several completed projects, including the construction of a 12-unit classroom block at the Wechiau Community Senior High School and the rehabilitation of the Dorimon Health Centre. These projects are part of efforts to improve education and healthcare access in the district.
However, the push for municipal status is driven by the need for increased internally generated funds to sustain such developments. The chiefs argue that municipal status would allow for better resource mobilization and allocation. Meanwhile, the assembly has also noted rising concerns over road safety, particularly on the Wa-Wechiau road, where accidents have been reported due to poor road conditions and speeding.
Security issues, including sporadic theft and conflicts over land, have also been raised by community members. The district security committee has been tasked with addressing these challenges through community policing and public education campaigns.
The request for municipal status will be submitted to the Ministry of Local Government for consideration. If approved, Wa West would join other districts in the Upper West Region that have been elevated to municipal status in recent years.
