AfriPulse
The Sekondi Takoradi Metropolitan Directorate of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) is preparing to supervise the demolition of the Zenith Cinema in Takoradi while also overseeing major renovation works at the historic Prempeh Theatre.
The decision follows technical assessments that revealed severe structural damage in both buildings, raising serious safety concerns.
Engineers and disaster management officials concluded that Zenith Cinema has deteriorated beyond repair and must be demolished.
However, they found that Prempeh Theatre can still be restored through extensive rehabilitation.
As a precaution, authorities have cordoned off the area to protect the public.
Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan NADMO Director, Alhaji Abubakar Kamal, led a team of engineers and technical experts to inspect the site.
He explained that the exercise forms part of a broader plan to identify and address unsafe buildings across the metropolis.
He said a wider assessment conducted in late 2025 identified 88 structures in Sekondi-Takoradi as either dangerous or structurally weak.
“We are here to conduct our final assessment on these two structures so that whatever recommendations the engineers offer, we implement them.
But even without any technical eyes, you can see that clearly something must be done and done quickly to avert any possible future calamity,” he said.
He further stated that the findings leave little hope for saving the Zenith Cinema. According to him, experts have recommended full demolition for the cinema while the Prempeh Theatre will undergo renovation.
“Our assessment of the Prempeh Theatre points to renovation, whilst that of the Zenith Cinema points to total demolition.”
The inspection team included officials from the Metro Works Department, Urban Roads Department, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Ghana National Fire Service, and NADMO, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.
Once, both buildings played a major role in the cultural life of Sekondi-Takoradi. For decades, Prempeh Theatre and Zenith Cinema hosted movies, music shows, boxing events, and social gatherings that attracted large crowds across the Western Region.
Historical accounts show that the venues formed part of a wider network of cinemas, including Princess Cinema, The View, and Exile, which shaped entertainment and nightlife in the twin city.
Zenith and Prempeh also contributed to the growth of boxing in the region, hosting major bouts that helped establish Sekondi-Takoradi as one of Ghana’s key boxing centres.
Today, however, both sites have fallen into disrepair. The possible demolition of Zenith Cinema signals the end of a long era for many residents.
Source: TheGhanaReport | Read the Full Story…
