Accra: Togbi Sri III, the Awoamefia of Anlo State, has called on the government to prioritize crucial development projects in the Volta Region, particularly in the Anlo Traditional Area, to foster inclusive national growth and expedite socio-economic transformation. The respected traditional leader made this appeal during a meeting with Mr. James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, who visited him at his Royal residence in Woe as part of a regional tour aimed at enhancing collaboration between political leadership and the chieftaincy institution.
According to Ghana News Agency, Togbi Sri III commended President John Dramani Mahama for his leadership and emphasized the necessity for strategic state investment in education, infrastructure, and port development. He described these areas as essential for unlocking the Volta Region's full potential. Togbi Sri III urged the government to consider establishing a School of Pharmacy in Anloga to significantly enhance tertiary education opportunities for the youth. He noted that such an institution would not only build capacity in the health sector but also reduce rural-urban migration by providing local access to quality professional and tertiary training.
Togbi Sri III also highlighted the urgent need for progress on the Keta Port project, describing it as a transformative national venture with the potential to boost economic growth. He expressed that the port's completion would open the region to international trade, attract significant local and foreign investment, and serve as a vital economic corridor along Ghana's eastern coastline.
Focusing on transportation and commerce, the Awoamefia called for immediate improvements in road infrastructure across the region, identifying key routes in need of rehabilitation, including the Ho-Tokor, Denu-Keta, Havedzi-Metrikasa, and Kome-Shime roads. He explained that improved road networks would facilitate easier movement within districts, boost inter-community trade, and improve access to health and education services.
During the meeting, several Paramount Chiefs, Queen Mothers, and elders of Anlo State, including Zikpitor Dan Abodakpi, Mama Wotobe II, President of the Anlo Queens Council, and Togbi Agbesi Awusu II, the Awadada of Anlo, expressed strong support for the Awoamefia's developmental appeal. In an exclusive interaction with the GNA, Togbi Agbesi Awusu II praised the Regional Minister for his dedication, particularly his prompt response to recent tidal wave disasters in Agavedzi and Salakope. He also urged the extension of the ongoing sea defence project to other vulnerable coastal communities in the Volta Region.
Responding to the concerns, Regional Minister James Gunu reaffirmed the government's commitment to inclusive development and acknowledged the strategic importance of the Volta Region in the national agenda. The ceremony was marked by colorful Anlo drumming and dancing performed by cultural troupes, adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the occasion. The Minister was accompanied by several dignitaries, including Mr. Wisdom Seade, Municipal Chief Executive for Keta, Madam Sandra Kpedor, District Chief Executive for Anloga, and Mr. Dagbah Daniel, MCE for Akatsi South, among others. Notable members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) were also in attendance, including Mr. Wonder Victor Kutor, Member of the NDC National Executive Committee (NEC), Mr. Mawutor Agbavitor, Volta Regional NDC Chairman, and Dr. Elikplim Apetorgbor, Volta Regional Representative on the National Development Planning Commission.
