Looking Ahead: 49th Anniversary & Economic Development Symposium
As we celebrate 49 years of friendship and partnership between Tema, Ghana and San Diego, California, we are excited to look ahead to a milestone event in our shared journey.
From May 22–25, 2025, the San Diego–Tema Sister City Society will host the 49th Anniversary & Economic Development Symposium: Focus Ghana. This landmark gathering will bring together leaders, innovators, and community members from both cities to explore opportunities for education, cultural exchange, trade, and sustainable growth.
We are honored to welcome a delegation of Ghanaian business professionals led by Mr. Frank Asante, Public Relations & International Affairs Officer of the Tema Metropolitan Assembly. Joining him will be distinguished guests including Dr. Victoria Ensinu Vitashie, Global Development Paramount Queen Mother of Ghana, and Mr. Richard (Dadzie) Mensah, Founder & Executive Director of RiGAfrica, whose pioneering work in sustainable business development is helping shape Ghana’s future.
This symposium will provide a platform for dialogue, networking, and collaboration, highlighting practical ways San Diego and Tema can strengthen ties and foster innovative solutions in education, business, and community development.
Together, we will build upon the strong foundation of nearly five decades of exchange, ensuring that our Sister City partnership continues to grow, inspire, and deliver impact for generations to come.
Global Development Paramount
Queen Mother, Ghana
Dr. Vitashie is a distinguished business leader and traditional Queen Mother who bridges global networks with local impact. As CEO of Westline Meridian Ltd., she has extensive experience in imports/exports, financial engineering, and international trade alliances. She is also the recipient of the Global Influence Leadership Award (Cape Town, 2021) for her outstanding contributions to women’s leadership and economic development. Her work demonstrates how cultural heritage and modern business innovation can intersect to inspire lasting change.
Founder & CEO
RiGAfrica, LTD
Richard is a dynamic entrepreneur and visionary leader shaping Ghana’s business landscape. Through RiGAfrica, he is pioneering sustainable solutions such as waste-to-energy initiatives that convert coconut waste into charcoal briquettes, creating jobs while improving environmental sustainability. With a multidisciplinary background and international experience, Richard is committed to catalyzing economic growth through innovation and community empowerment.
Public Relations & International Affairs Officer
Tema Metropolitan Assembly
For more than 18 years, Frank has been the anchor of the San Diego–Tema Sister City relationship. He has been instrumental in building partnerships, coordinating delegations, and ensuring that San Diego visitors to Ghana feel welcomed and connected. His deep understanding of international relations and local governance makes him a trusted resource in advancing community-based initiatives and strengthening global ties.