Togbe Afede Backs Youth Innovation, Awards GHS260,000 to Startups

Accra: Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of Asogli State, has reaffirmed his commitment to youth empowerment, calling on traditional authorities and development partners to prioritise innovation-driven entrepreneurship.According to Ghana News Agency, he made the call during the grand finale of the 2025 Asogli State Youth Empowerment (ASYE) Forum, where GHC 260,000 was awarded to eight promising youth-led enterprises. The event, held on Saturday, July 19 at the Ho Technical University (HTU) Auditorium, brought together over 300 participants, including entrepreneurs, aspiring business leaders, and development partners.It forms part of a broader initiative to build a resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem within the Volta Region and beyond. Togbe Afede XIV, who chaired the event, described the finalists' business ideas as a 'beacon of hope' for the future of the region, adding, 'The courage, creativity, and entrepreneurial drive exhibited here today assure us that the next generation of leaders is ready to take charge.'Out of 284 applications received by ASYE and other parts of the country, eight businesses were selected for the ASYE Innovation Grant after a rigorous review process, culminating in live pitch presentations at the forum. 'This is more than just funding. It is about belief, belief in the capacity of our youth to solve problems, to build enterprises, and to transform lives,' Togbe Afede stated.The forum Asogli Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurship Day 2025 served as an annual flagship event designed to encourage business innovation, promote mentorship, and highlight emerging investment opportunities. Participants benefited from keynote addresses by seasoned entrepreneurs, hands-on business development sessions, and practical insights into applying for future grant cycles.Mr. Nicodemus NB D. Dery, National Coordinator of the National Apprenticeship Programme, was a special guest at the forum and praised the Asogli initiative and pledged continuous government support to help scale the selected vent ures nationwide. 'This collaboration sets a national example. These young entrepreneurs represent the productive future we must all support,' Mr. Dery said.The next phase of the programme, according to the organisers, will be a structured business incubation phase, with eight startups receiving technical guidance, operational support, and market exposure to strengthen their foundations. The Asogli State Council expressed gratitude to its strategic partners, especially @Life-MacAfrica, for their enduring commitment to grassroots innovation and local development.'This journey would not have been possible without our partners. We thank them for walking with us,' said a statement from the Council. All eight winners were commended for their boldness and commitment with Organisers urging them to view this grant as the beginning of a larger mission to inspire and uplift others through enterprise and innovation. 'Let your success light the way for others still finding their path,' the Council encouraged.With th e 2025 ASYE Forum concluded, planning is already underway for the 2026 edition, with a call to action for more youth participation and stronger multi-sector partnerships. As Togbe Afede XIV noted, 'Let us invest in the youth, they are the architects of the prosperous Asogli we seek to build together.'Ernest Selase Klutse, Ernest Reality was adjudged first; followed by Semanu Adoboe, HomePack Medical Services; with third position going to Osman Kadri, Premium Biofert Limited. Others were Cynthia Gadzanku, CM Beauty Bar; Alber Kpeglo, Natures Novelties; Maureen Fafali Mensah, Global Farms Limited; Rejoice Banibensu; Cobbshow Creativity Ventures; and Arnold Adjei, and Arns Foods Limited, who together were awarded GHC260,000.