Former Mayor for Tema, David Annan, has attributed the prolonged rehabilitation works on the Tema Children’s Park to the interest of private developers.Speaking to the media on Tuesday, June 24, he explained that some private developers are relentlessly trying to claim the Park, even though it remains a government asset.

According to him, he turned down proposals to renovate the space while in office because they failed to serve the park’s intended purpose.

“Our challenge is that private interest is overriding the public interest with which the area was reserved. When private individuals enter, the place will be developed, yes—but not for the purpose it was intended. It becomes concrete, not green.”

“When private individuals enter, the place will be developed, yes—but not for the purpose it was intended. It becomes concrete, not green,” he added.

Once a lively and strategically located park in the heart of Accra, it is now in a state of neglect.

The collapse of the state-owned Tema Children’s Park shows no signs of improvement.

In its heyday, the park was a hub of activity, attracting many families who brought their children there for fun, especially on public holidays and weekends. The facility also hosted various events such as the award-winning Italian IL Florilegio Circus, fun fairs, and more.

However, for over a decade, the once lively park has remained inactive. This stands in stark contrast to private parks in the national capital, which are well-maintained and continue to draw visitors.

In 2023, residents in Tema voiced displeasure over a supposed attempt by the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) and the Tema Development Corporation (TDC) to sell the Tema Library and Children's Playground .

The concerned residents vowed to oppose any efforts, adding that these vital community assets, which have faithfully served the area for over three decades, are purportedly being sold to a private developer for the construction of a shopping mall or casino.

Their opposition is rooted in the belief that the park should not be repurposed for commercial use.

They have made a resolute pledge to stage protests and demonstrations until all ongoing work is brought to a complete halt.

Meanwhile, the former Mayor of the area has called on local authorities and city planners to protect the property from encroachment by prioritizing its swift renovation.