The Western North Development Association (WENDA) has officially sworn in its newly appointed executives at a ceremony held at Addai’s Hotel in Bibiani on Sunday, 8th February 2026.
The event brought together members and stakeholders of the association to witness the induction of a leadership mandated to steer WENDA’s activities and advance its development agenda in the Western North Region.
Leading the new executives is Maxwell Baidoo, who was sworn in as President by Nana Kwame Boadu, Registrar of the Bibiani Magistrate Court. Joyce Kwarteng assumes the role of Vice President, while Samuel Kokro takes office as General Secretary, and Gideon Banahene serves as Financial Secretary.
Other officers sworn in include Emmanuella Frema Aidoo as Women’s Commissioner, Joyce Armah as Secretary for Education, Rita Okom as Deputy General Secretary, Desmond Kyei Donkor as Regional Coordinator, and Asare Kesse as Head of Publicity and IT.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Maxwell Baidoo expressed deep humility and a strong sense of responsibility, describing the occasion as a significant milestone in the history of the Association and its long-standing mission to promote development in the region.
He traced WENDA’s origins to 2011, when concerned sons and daughters of Sefwi, Aowin, and Brosa came together under the Sefwiman Development Association.
According to him, what began as a shared concern for regional development later evolved into WENDA, reflecting a broader vision, stronger advocacy, and a deeper commitment to the people of the Western North.
Mr. Baidoo explained that although his appointment was made three months ago, the official swearing-in ceremony was held after all executive and council appointments were completed in line with the Association’s constitution.
He emphasized that the ceremony was a reaffirmation of WENDA’s readiness to serve and deliver.
He paid tribute to traditional authorities, pioneers, and stakeholders whose sacrifices led to the creation of the Western North Region, stressing that the achievement was a collective effort rather than the work of any single individual.
Highlighting achievements recorded within his first three months in office, Mr. Baidoo disclosed that WENDA had reviewed and strengthened its constitution, supported sixteen students to access international scholarship opportunities, and facilitated scholarships for three students under the KAAF University Founder’s Scholarship.
He added that more than 1,000 students across the region have benefited from the scheme, with an additional 40 students cleared this year to pursue programmes in Law, Pharmacy, Nursing, and Engineering.
In education, WENDA honoured the coaches and students of Awaso STEM Senior High School for their outstanding performance in the 2025 National Public Speaking Competition. In collaboration with GHACEM Cement, WENDA also applied for support to complete self-help projects at Bibiani Community A and B Basic Schools.
Mr. Baidoo further disclosed that WENDA has assisted eight National Service Personnel with postings, secured internship placements for twelve students, and begun honouring individuals who contributed to the region’s development. The Association has also presented citations to the Regional Minister and all nine MMDCEs to deepen collaboration for regional growth.
Outlining his four-year vision, Mr. Baidoo announced key interventions in youth employment, agriculture, education, health, tourism, women empowerment, sports, and entertainment.
Flagship initiatives include the WENDA Jobs Initiative, the WENDA Business Hub, Smart Skills for the Digital World, and the Green Gold Initiative, aimed at repositioning agriculture as a profitable and modern venture.
He revealed ongoing engagements with government agencies and experts to establish a central oil palm nursery in the region and to position Western North to benefit from national agricultural programmes, particularly in response to climate change and the impact of illegal mining on cocoa production.
On health, Mr. Baidoo welcomed the government’s decision to establish a regional hospital in Western North and commended individuals who contributed to the advocacy. He also praised the Banahene Twin Brothers for a massive medical outreach that benefited over 2,000 residents across the region.
He called for sustained action against illegal mining, drug abuse, and the rising cost of living, urging authorities and stakeholders to protect consumers and the youth. Mr. Baidoo further appealed for support towards the creation of Sefwi Bekwai and Asawinso districts to bring governance and development closer to the people.
Despite the ambitious agenda, he acknowledged challenges confronting WENDA, including limited funding, lack of office space, and logistics. He appealed to stakeholders, philanthropists, and development partners to support the Association as it works towards sustainable funding solutions.
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to accountable, inclusive, and non-partisan leadership, calling on all residents of the Western North Region to unite behind WENDA’s development agenda to transform the region.
The ceremony was graced by notable personalities, including Dr. Emmanuel Banahene, Patron of the Association and CEO of Banahene Specialist Hospital, Tema.
Others are Frank Nelson Ackah, President of the Ghana National Association of Assemblies; Anane Korsah, Headmaster of Corsa & Partners Boarding School; Nana Adwoa Ampo II, Queenmother of Sefwi Humjibre; Nana Beniwaa Awuah Doney, Queenmother of Chine; and Martha Nneka Opara, NCCE Municipal Director for Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai and other notable dignities within the region.
