A newly constructed court complex has been inaugurated in Winneba, marking a significant milestone in the delivery of justice within the Effutu Traditional Area of Ghana’s Central Region.

The facility paves the way for the establishment of a Circuit Court in Winneba and an additional courtroom for the existing High Court, reducing the need for litigants to travel to Swedru or Accra for their legal matters to be addressed.

The court complex, inaugurated on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, sits on a two-acre parcel of land and forms part of an ambitious infrastructure initiative led by the Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin.

In addition to the court, the enclave also houses a Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) office, Fire Service station, Immigration office, National Health Insurance Authority office, Divisional Police Headquarters, and a recreational centre, creating a comprehensive hub for public services.

The complex features 11 offices with en-suite washrooms, two storage facilities, and a police post equipped with a holding cell and an armory.

“This court facility is historic because law and order are the bedrock of a functioning democracy,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin declared at the commissioning ceremony.

He described the project as a personal contribution to strengthening the judiciary and inspiring public confidence in the justice system.

“Justice is the foundation of any peaceful and equitable society. This is a one-stop center for justice delivery, ensuring speedy access to justice. The law is for all—rich or poor—and this aligns with our broader agenda for developing Effutu,” he added.

Calls for Greater Access and Maintenance

In her remarks, Justice Marian A. G. Jaware of the Court of Appeal emphasized the need for a strategic framework to enhance access to justice.

“For many, justice is elusive. We must ensure that everyone benefits from a fair and speedy justice system,” she noted.

“Justice is a social contract between the state and the citizenry, and we must safeguard it.”

The Acting Municipal Chief Executive for Effutu, Alhaji Abudulai Alhassan, lauded the project’s potential to create employment and promote local development.

He also urged stakeholders to adopt a robust maintenance culture to sustain the facility’s benefits for future generations.

The new court complex is expected to reduce congestion in other regional courts, improve turnaround times for legal cases, and foster public trust in the rule of law.