WR: Shama Installs New Paramount Chief After 13-Year Vacancy

The Shama Traditional Area in the Western Region can now boast of a new Paramount Chief, 13 years after the passing of Nana Kweku Binnah IV and a prolonged period of misunderstanding among members of the royal family.

A renowned businessman has been enstooled as the new Omanhene under the stool name Osagyefo Kwaw Freiku IV.

The Number 1 and 4 Asafo Companies of Shama, who hold the authority to select the Omanhene, unanimously appointed Osagyefo Kwaw Freiku IV.

By virtue of his position, he will now serve as the President of the Shama Traditional Council (STC). He has been gazetted and will, in due course, be officially invited by the Western Regional House of Chiefs to be sworn in as a member.

Official Introduction

Osagyefo Kwaw Freiku IV was officially introduced to the Shama Traditional Council in a colourful ceremony held on Monday, April 14, 2025.

Members of the Council, including Nana Kwamina Wienu, Chief of Yabiw—who had acted as the paramount chief over the past thirteen years—and Nana Dekyi, the Nkosouhene (Development Chief), warmly welcomed the new Omanhene. They expressed delight at his installation and applauded the kingmakers for making what they described as the right choice.

“As sub-chiefs, we have no doubt in our minds that you will lead us to transform Shama into a modern traditional area and also recapture our dwindling glory,” they said.

Vision for Shama

In his maiden address, Osagyefo Kwaw Freiku IV assured the chiefs and people of Shama of his commitment to serve, while outlining an ambitious vision for the traditional area and its surrounding communities.

He emphasized the urgent need for development in Shama, which has suffered stagnation due to protracted chieftaincy disputes.

“As the new Omanhene, I am committed to transforming ancient Shama, with a focus on health infrastructure, education, road development, and other key sectors,” he said.

Describing his enstoolment as the dawn of a new era for Shama, Osagyefo Kwaw Freiku IV called on all stakeholders to bury their differences, unite, and rally behind his leadership to give the area a much-needed facelift.