The industrial city of Tema has for decades been home to a vibrant and diverse Zongo community spread across Tema Manhean, Tema New Town, Community One, Bankuman, Ashaiman and its environs. Yet, despite its rich history, Tema had never had a unified Sariki Zongo.
That history changed in 2025/2026 when Alhaji Faisal Abdullah Masud was officially crowned Tema Sariki Zongo I, becoming the first-ever Sariki Zongo of Tema. His coronation was described as a historic occasion that brought together traditional leaders, religious authorities, ethnic groups and major stakeholders from across Ghana in a grand celebration of culture and unity.
Alhaji Faisal, also widely known in Tema as Alhaji Faisal Saltan or Alhaji Netro, is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of the Zongo community through his traditional leadership and development-oriented vision.
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Beyond his traditional title, Alhaji Faisal is an accomplished entrepreneur, philanthropist and sportsman with interests spanning several sectors.
He is the president of True Democracy FC, a Division One League team, the owner of 90’s Lounge, and the CEO of Paramount Empire Trading And Investment Company Limited and Sultan Incorporation. He is also a hotelier and farmer.
His business background is considered a key component of his development vision for the Zongo community, particularly in the areas of job creation, youth empowerment and economic advancement.
His coronation was not merely a chieftaincy event but also a demonstration of unity in diversity. Representatives of Dagomba, Frafra, Hausa, Kusaasi and other ethnic communities were present, alongside members of the Traditional Council.
The National Chief Imam and other respected Islamic leaders also attended the ceremony. Significantly, both Christians and Muslims participated in the celebration, reflecting the spirit of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among the people of Tema.
The historic occasion is expected to set the tone for Alhaji Faisal’s leadership, which places emphasis on inclusivity, dialogue and peaceful collaboration among the various ethnic and religious groups within the Zongo community.
As the first Sariki Zongo I of Tema, Alhaji Faisal has outlined a six-point development agenda aimed at transforming the Zongo communities and improving the lives of residents.
A major priority is unity and peacebuilding. With Tema’s Zongo communities comprising several ethnic groups, including Hausa, Dagomba, Mamprusi, Kusaasi, Kotokoli, Frafra and Yoruba, his vision is to bring them under one umbrella while addressing chieftaincy and ethnic misunderstandings through dialogue.
He is also expected to serve as a bridge between the Zongo community, the Tema Traditional Council and government institutions to promote cooperation and development.
Youth empowerment and sports development also form a central part of his agenda. Through True Democracy FC and his business ventures, Alhaji Faisal intends to create opportunities for young people in football, hospitality, trading and farming.
His businesses are expected to provide potential pathways for apprenticeship, skills acquisition and employment, helping young people develop practical skills and pursue sustainable livelihoods.
Education and skills development are another key focus, with plans to tackle school dropout rates in the Zongo community by supporting both Islamic and secular education.
His proposed initiatives include scholarships, as well as connecting young people to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) opportunities and the National Apprenticeship Programme.
On economic empowerment, Alhaji Faisal aims to leverage his business network and experience to mentor Zongo entrepreneurs, support market women at the Tema Community One Market and promote financial inclusion among residents.
His development agenda also places emphasis on sanitation, healthcare and social welfare. Plans include regular community clean-up exercises, health screenings and support for the needy during Ramadan and Eid, reflecting the spirit of service and solidarity associated with Zongo communities.
Security and the fight against drug abuse also feature prominently in his vision. Through collaboration with Imams, community elders and the Ghana Police Service, he intends to support efforts to address drug abuse, including tramadol misuse and kush, as well as crime affecting young people in the Zongo community.
Alhaji Faisal’s emergence represents a new model of Zongo leadership in Ghana, combining the traditional responsibilities of a chief with business experience, sports investment and community development.
As the first person to occupy the stool, he has the opportunity to establish a lasting precedent and lay a strong foundation for future Sarkis of Tema.
The story of Alhaji Faisal Abdullah Masud, Tema Sariki Zongo I, is closely tied to the story of Tema itself — a diverse, industrious and forward-looking city.
His coronation has marked a significant milestone in the history of Tema’s Zongo communities, opening a new chapter focused on unity, development and greater community representation.
With his business network, youth appeal and stated commitment to fostering unity among different ethnic and religious groups, his leadership vision seeks to build a more organized, visible and developed Zongo community that contributes meaningfully to the growth of the Greater Accra Region and Ghana.
Long Live Tema Sariki Zongo I! Long Live Tema! Long Live Ghana!
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