Alhaji Faisal Abdullah Masud, widely known in Tema as Alhaji Faisal Saltan or Alhaji Netro, was installed as the inaugural Sariki Zongo I of Tema on Sunday. The ceremony marked the first time the title has been officially conferred in the city’s history.
Representatives from the Zongo quarters of Tema Manhean, Tema New Town, Community One, Bankuman, Ashaiman and surrounding areas gathered to witness the event. Delegates from ethnic groups including Dagomba, Frafra, Hausa, Kusaasi, Mamprusi, Kotokoli, Yoruba and others were present, underscoring the diversity of the communities that will now fall under the new traditional leadership structure.
The coronation also drew members of both Muslim and Christian faiths, reflecting the longstanding harmony between the two religions in Tema. Traditional leaders, Islamic authorities and various community stakeholders celebrated the occasion as a step toward greater unity, representation and development for the Zongo areas.
Alhaji Faisal Abdullah Masud brings a blend of traditional authority and business acumen to the role. He is president of True Democracy F.C., owner of 90’s Lounge, CEO of Paramount Empire Trading and Investment Company Limited and Sultan Incorporation, and is active in hospitality and agriculture. His experience in entrepreneurship and youth programmes shapes his vision for the Zongo communities.
In his inaugural address, the new Sariki Zongo outlined a six‑point agenda: unity and peace‑building, youth empowerment through sports and business, education and skills development, economic empowerment and entrepreneurship, sanitation, health and social welfare, and community security and drug‑abuse prevention. He pledged to work with the Tema Traditional Council, government institutions, Imams, elders, youth leaders and the Ghana Police Service to advance these goals.
The installation is seen as a foundation for a stronger platform of dialogue, cooperation and development among Tema’s Zongo communities, with the hope of fostering a more united, peaceful and progressive neighbourhood.
