Takoradi, here we come; Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana's Annual General Meeting 2023.

Over the years, the pharmaceutical society of Ghana’s annual general meeting (AGM) has aroused a lot of excitement among pharmacists, especially newly inducted pharmacists. During this time, pharmacists meet, have fun, and discuss recent professional developments and the way forward. This year’s AGM is on the 5th to 8th of September with the theme “The Pharmacist for National Development.” Over the years, AGMs have been organized in various regions of the country, and each region has made the AGM fun and productive. Things are a little different this year because we are returning to the region that has fueled the country over the years with all its plentiful resources.

I have travelled the length and breadth of the Western region, from Asankrangwa, Axim, Dixcove, Tarkwa, Bibiani, and Sekondi; Azaay, Taadi she yie! The Western region produced the first President of the Republic of Ghana, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the first representative who made us aware that we could manage our affairs. This region placed Ghana above its contemporaries as a country that gained independence from colonial rule, an excellent example to many African countries. Even today, Ghana continues making history by being the first sub-Saharan country to roll out an online pharmacy pilot on a large scale, making pharmacists accessible across the country and advancing national development.

The pharmaceutical society of Ghana’s decision to host the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Takoradi is a deliberate attempt to remind us that the pharmacist can advance national development. The western region of Ghana is a place with many resources that supports the economy of the nation, it is blessed with a diverse landscape supporting agriculture and industry. The twin city (Sekondi-Takoradi) and its environs are blessed with significant deposits of Gold, bauxite, manganese, oil, timber, and crops like cocoa, rubber, and oil palm. Also, Sekondi-Takoradi is known for its rich culture and festivals. Coincidentally, the Kundum festival falls around the latter part of August and the beginning of September each year, around the same time the AGM will take place. It will be a time of merry-making, drumming, dancing, and beautiful cultural displays.

In addition, Takoradi has vibrant beaches and houses one of Ghana's essential harbours—a dynamic business center. There are so many tourist attractions like castles, the Fort Metal Cross, built by the Dutch in the 17th century, and the Takoradi Market Circle, the largest open-air market in the region. Also, Nzulezu, a village built entirely on stilts above Lake Tadane is a terrific tourist destination in the Western region. When it comes to food, Takoradi has various kinds of seafoods like octopus, fish, prawns, shrimps, crabs etc. There are also cooked fermented corn dough balls (etew), fresh fish stew (fanti-fanti), pounded rice snacks, boiled bambara bean stews and fried mashed ripe plantain (tetale).

Though the Western region has so many resources, it is sometimes underrated. Takoradi is fast becoming a thriving hub for new pharmacies and start-ups; this AGM will offer all pharmacists and friends of this noble profession an opportunity to see all the great things the Western region has to offer. Consider the numerous business opportunities in this region that will be available to pharmacists attending the AGM. Come join us as we attend the 2023 AGM in Takoradi.