Alhaji Faisal Abdullah Masud, widely known as Alhaji Faisal Saltan or Alhaji Netro, was installed as Sariki Zongo I of Tema, becoming the first person to officially hold the title in the city's history. This development represents a significant moment for the numerous Zongo communities spread across Tema, including Tema Manhean, Tema New Town, Community One, Bankuman, Ashaiman, and surrounding areas. These communities have been home to people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds for decades.
The establishment of a unified traditional leadership structure under the Tema Sariki Zongo stool is seen as an opportunity to strengthen unity, representation, and development across the various Zongo communities. The coronation ceremony brought together traditional leaders, Islamic authorities, representatives of various ethnic communities, and other stakeholders to celebrate culture, unity, and peaceful coexistence. The event reflected the long-standing relationship between Muslims and Christians in Tema, with members of both faiths participating.
Representatives of communities, including Dagomba, Frafra, Hausa, Kusaasi, Mamprusi, Kotokoli, Yoruba, and other groups, were present at the historic occasion. The installation of Alhaji Faisal Abdullah Masud marks the beginning of a new traditional leadership structure intended to provide a stronger platform for dialogue, cooperation, and development within the Zongo communities of Tema.
Alhaji Faisal Abdullah Masud combines traditional leadership with extensive experience in business, sports, and community development. He is the president of True Democracy F.C., a Division One League team, and the owner of 90’s Lounge. He also serves as CEO of Paramount Empire Trading and Investment Company Limited and Sultan Incorporation, and is involved in the hospitality and agricultural sectors as a hotelier and farmer.
As the first Sariki Zongo I of Tema, Alhaji Faisal Abdullah Masud has outlined a six-point development agenda focused on building a more united, peaceful, and progressive Zongo community. His priorities include unity and peace-building, youth empowerment and sports development, education and skills development, economic empowerment and entrepreneurship, sanitation, health and social welfare, and community security and the fight against drug abuse.
Alhaji Faisal's development agenda aims to address key challenges facing the Zongo communities, including unemployment, skills development, and economic empowerment. He plans to use his business experience to mentor entrepreneurs, support traders and market women, and promote greater financial inclusion within the Zongo communities. His agenda also includes community clean-up exercises, health screening programmes, and support for vulnerable members of the community.
The installation of Alhaji Faisal Abdullah Masud as Sariki Zongo I of Tema is expected to have a positive impact on the city's Zongo communities, promoting unity, cooperation, and development. His leadership and vision for the development of the Tema Zongo communities, particularly in the areas of employment, skills development, and economic empowerment, are seen as crucial in addressing the challenges facing these communities.
Key points
- Alhaji Faisal Abdullah Masud installed as first Sariki Zongo I of Tema
- Installation marks significant milestone for city's diverse Zongo communities
- Alhaji Faisal outlines six-point development agenda for Zongo communities
