In his inaugural Sessional Address, the Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE) of Cape Coast, Hon. George Justice Arthur, outlined key accomplishments and development strategies for the metropolis. The address was delivered on Tuesday, July 22, 2024, at the Assembly Hall during the 1st Ordinary Meeting of the 2nd Session of the 9th Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly.

Hon. Arthur addressed critical sectors including education, security, revenue performance, sanitation and waste management, and health.

Education:
The MCE reported that Assembly officers, including himself, collaborated with the Metro Directorate of Education to monitor all centers during this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), aiming to boost candidate morale. He shared that 3,595 candidates participated (1,761 boys and 1,834 girls). He noted, however, that 11 pregnant candidates (including 2 nursing mothers) and 7 absentees (6 boys and 1 girl) were recorded. The Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to education through school renovations, providing essential learning materials, and supporting exam preparation.



Security:


Hon. Arthur acknowledged relative peace in the first quarter, citing minor theft incidents around Kotokuraba, which prompted increased police patrols. He somberly reminded the Assembly of the fatal accident at UCC West Gate on June 19, 2025, pledging measures to reduce accidents at that location.

Revenue Performance:
The MCE lamented the Assembly’s insufficient internally generated funds to supplement central government resources for developmental needs. He emphasized that of the 2025 projected revenue of GH₵55,734,616.75, only GH₵7,893,420.65 was earmarked for internal collection. As of June 2025, GH₵2,617,214.61 (33%) had been collected.

Health:
Stressing that "a healthy people make a healthy nation," Hon. Arthur called for professionalism in service delivery and effective financial management to improve healthcare. A team visited 16 health facilities to supervise and audit operations. He applauded the successful Health Directorate review in February 2025, which assessed 2024 outcomes to inform current-year policies. Progress in public health includes ongoing sanitation campaigns and plans to upgrade local facilities, particularly the Cape Coast Metropolitan Hospital.

Conclusion:
The MCE emphasized youth empowerment, community engagement, and united action among Assembly Members. He urged residents to renew their vigor in driving sustainable development and improving quality of life in Cape Coast.