Togbe Afede XIV, Agbogbomefia of Asogli State, has emphasized the need for stronger cooperation and coordination among stakeholders to accelerate economic development in the Volta Region. He made this call at the Volta Economic Forum in Ho, which aims to move beyond identifying economic opportunities to actual investment execution. The forum, themed “From Opportunity Showcase to Investment Execution,” seeks to create an environment that attracts businesses, generates jobs, and improves living standards.
The Volta Economic Forum provides a platform for mobilizing human and financial resources to drive development in the region. Togbe Afede commended the organizers, led by Dr. Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor, Commissioner and Volta Regional Representative at the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), for bringing stakeholders together. He noted that the region has significant opportunities in agriculture, tourism, infrastructure, energy, and trade that require coordinated investment.
Togbe Afede identified several initiatives with potential to transform the region, including the proposed Keta Harbour, improved railway connectivity, the Eastern Corridor Road, agricultural development, and energy projects. He stressed the need for sustained efforts to attract investors and develop necessary infrastructure. The Agbogbomefia recalled previous attempts by prominent citizens and traditional leaders to mobilize resources for regional development, citing the Volta Forum and the Volta Development Agency.
The Agbogbomefia paid tribute to the late Mr. Raymond Okudzeto, who was passionate about regional development, particularly the Keta Harbour project. He noted that current efforts to mobilize investors for the project require continued collaboration among traditional authorities, government, and the private sector. Togbe Afede urged stakeholders to coordinate development initiatives rather than operating in competition.
Togbe Afede called on Voltarians to embrace values such as honesty, hard work, humility, education, love, and perseverance. He emphasized that collective commitment is essential to transforming the region's human and natural resources into sustainable development. The Agbogbomefia's call for unity and cooperation resonated with attendees at the forum.
The Volta Economic Forum is a significant step towards achieving the region's development goals. By bringing stakeholders together, the forum aims to create a comprehensive plan for the region's economic growth. Dr. Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor's efforts to organize the forum have been commended by Togbe Afede and other stakeholders.
The region's development prospects rely on effective collaboration and coordination among stakeholders. With a united effort, the Volta Region can harness its potential in various sectors and achieve sustainable growth. Key initiatives, such as the Keta Harbour project, require sustained support to come to fruition and drive regional development.
Key points
- Togbe Afede XIV calls for unity among stakeholders to accelerate economic development in the Volta Region.
- The Volta Economic Forum aims to move beyond identifying economic opportunities to actual investment execution.
- The region has significant opportunities in agriculture, tourism, infrastructure, energy, and trade that require coordinated investment.
