A delegation from the Volta Regional House of Chiefs, led by Togbe Tepre Hodo IV, convened at the Presidency in Accra to congratulate President John Dramani Mahama on his recent electoral victory. The President, accompanied by Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, received the delegation and expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support from the Volta region. He took the opportunity to outline his administration’s ambitious development plans for the region, emphasizing infrastructure projects as a key driver of economic growth and improvement in the quality of life for the people.
Central to these plans is a commitment to major road projects, including the completion of the Eastern Corridor Road and the reconstruction of the Ho-Denu Road. These projects, earmarked under the ambitious “Big Push” program, aim to inject $10 billion into infrastructure development over the next five years. Further bolstering this commitment, President Mahama highlighted the inclusion of all 18 constituencies within the Volta region in the 10km per constituency road reconstruction project, promising a significant expansion of the region’s road network within his tenure. This multi-pronged approach to road development underscores the President’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and facilitating economic activity throughout the Volta region.
Addressing coastal protection, the President highlighted the Agavedze Sea Defence Project, a critical initiative designed to mitigate the devastating effects of tidal waves on coastal communities. Having personally inspected the area and witnessed the challenges faced by residents, President Mahama reiterated his administration’s dedication to providing relief and implementing sustainable solutions. The project, marked by the recent placement of brines, aims to push back the encroaching sea and safeguard vulnerable communities. Further coastal protection measures are planned under the West Africa Coastal Areas Management Programme (WACA), a World Bank-funded initiative focused on beach replenishment along the coastline up to Aflao, thereby extending protection to a wider area and offering long-term security against coastal erosion.
The Ho Airport, another key project, currently underutilized for commercial flights, is poised for a revitalization. President Mahama endorsed the establishment of a pilot training school at the airport and directed the Ghana Airport Company to allocate 10 acres of land for this purpose. Adding further value to the airport, a proposal for a maintenance and repair facility is under consideration, aiming to attract aircraft for servicing and further boost the airport’s economic contribution. This multi-faceted approach aims to maximize the airport’s potential, creating employment opportunities and contributing to the region’s economic growth.
Leveraging the Volta region’s rich natural resources and agricultural potential, President Mahama emphasized its role in the “Feed Ghana Project.” The region’s favorable environment, including its fertile land and water resources, positions it as a hub for agribusiness, processing agricultural products for both domestic consumption and export. A key initiative under this program is the development of a 200,000-hectare oil palm plantation, with the government pledging support for the existing Volta Palm Project to contribute towards this goal. These agricultural initiatives aim to enhance food security, create employment opportunities, and diversify the region’s economic base.
Beyond agriculture, President Mahama outlined plans for market enhancements across the country, including the reconstruction of the Aflao Ashigame market. This project, part of the Market Enhancement Programme spearheaded by the Vice President, is specifically designed to boost cross-border trade with neighboring Togo. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to fostering economic integration and promoting vibrant commercial activity within the region. In response to the President’s address, Togbe Tepre commended the government’s efforts in stabilizing the cedi and curbing inflation, recognizing these achievements as crucial for creating a conducive economic environment for growth and development. This exchange between the President and traditional leaders highlights the collaborative approach towards achieving sustainable development within the Volta region.
