Planner Gifty Nyarko, Head of the Physical Planning Department at the Sunyani West Municipal Assembly and Interim National President of the Local Government Service Association of Physical Planners, has been honoured with the prestigious Personality of Great Impact and Excellence Award at the 2025 Ghana Titans Awards.
The ceremony took place on Saturday, March 21, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Centre.
Pln. Nyarko’s dedication to national development, particularly in the areas of participatory planning and transparency, earned her a spot among 100 outstanding nominees from various sectors.
The award ceremony also recognized Engr. Richard Ben Debrah, Head of Works at the Tema West Municipal Assembly and National President of the Local Government Service Engineers Association.
Accompanied by traditional leaders from the Sunyani West Municipality, Pln. Nyarko’s achievement underscored the essential collaboration between planners and traditional authorities in promoting sustainable development.
She was one of three local government service personalities honored during the event, alongside Ing. Dr. Nana Ato Arthur, former head of the Local Government Service.
The Ghana Titans Awards, organized by the Business Executive Media Group, celebrates individuals whose efforts significantly contribute to the country’s societal and economic growth.
In her acceptance speech, Pln. Nyarko highlighted the importance of collaborative planning, acquiring legitimate permits, and the role planners play in addressing climate change and preventing fire hazards.
She also launched the “Bringing Spatial Planning to the Doorsteps of People” project, which aims to positively impact both Ghana and the global community.
Pln. Nyarko dedicated her award to several supporters, including traditional leaders (nananom), the Ghana Institute of Planning, the Local Government Service Association of Physical Planners, the Land Use and Spatial Planning Authority, Sunyani West Municipal Assembly’s Coordinating Director Mr. Gordon Domayele, as well as Plns. Frank Martey Korley, Yaa Asuamah Gyedu-Pensang, Kwabena Asiedu-Bediako, Prof. Clifford Amoako (Head of the Department of Planning at KNUST), and her family, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout her planning career.
Engr. Ben Debrah, who was also recognized for his exceptional dedication and professionalism, expressed his gratitude during his acceptance speech.
“Our role in shaping the country’s infrastructure is essential for long-term economic growth and national development,” he stated.
He urged his fellow engineers to continue advancing sustainable infrastructure, upholding high construction standards, and embracing innovative solutions to meet Ghana’s infrastructural needs.
Engr. Ben Debrah dedicated his award to his team at the Works Department, colleagues in the Local Government Service Engineers Association, and various organizations, including the Ghana Institution of Engineering, Technology Ghana, the Tema West Municipal Assembly, St. Bakhita Catholic Church, and his family, with special thanks to his wife for her ongoing support.
Both Pln. Nyarko and Engr. Ben Debrah were recognized for their invaluable contributions to Ghana’s development, further establishing themselves as key figures in the country’s progress and sustainability.