The Volta Region, a key area with untapped potential, has been prominently featured in the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s manifesto, which outlines a transformative vision for the region.
Under the guidance of the NDC Volta Regional Communication Bureau, led by Kafui Agbleze, the NDC has detailed a wide-ranging plan that touches on infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and economic development.
This plan aims to drive regional growth and foster economic opportunities. Here is an in-depth look at the proposed initiatives:
- Aviation and Logistics: Upgrading Ho Airport – The NDC plans to elevate Ho Airport into a pivotal training hub, complete with certified maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) systems. This move is intended to position the airport as a key player in the aviation sector, promoting regional connectivity and creating job opportunities.
- Reviving Agriculture and Agro-Processing: A critical focus is the revival of abandoned ranches, farms, and meat factories in the region, with particular attention to the Aveyime rice farm and Adidome facilities. These initiatives are expected to bolster local agriculture, reduce food imports, and stimulate economic growth through enhanced productivity.
- Modern Market Infrastructure: The construction of a modern market in Aflao aims to boost local commerce by providing a structured space for traders and buyers. This market will be complemented by fish industry support initiatives, including the development of a modern inland fish terminal at Kpando Torkor and fish harbours in towns such as Aflao and Sogakope, complete with processing, storage, and smoking facilities.
- Enhancing Irrigation and Water Supply Systems: The manifesto includes plans to rehabilitate several irrigation projects in Wli, Kpli, Dekpor, Weta, and Afife, which are crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity. Additionally, the expansion of water supply systems in Ho and its surrounding communities will ensure equitable access to clean and safe water. Key projects include the Sogakope Trans-Boundary Water System and the Ho, Kpeve, and Hohoe Water facilities.
- Industrial Revitalization: Juapong Textile Factory – The NDC intends to revitalize the Juapong Textile Factory, a move aimed at breathing new life into the textile industry and providing much-needed employment opportunities in the region.
- Expanding the Port of Keta: In partnership with the private sector, the NDC plans to develop and operate the Port of Keta. This initiative is expected to open up economic opportunities not just in the Volta Region, but also in the Oti, Northern, and parts of the Savannah Regions.
- Comprehensive Road Development: Significant road construction projects have been outlined, including the Eastern Corridor Road from Tema through Asikuma to Hohoe and beyond. Additional inter-regional roads such as the Keta-Denu-Ho-Have-Kpando-Worawora-Dambai, and the Asikuma-Anum-Dzemeni roads will enhance connectivity and ease the movement of goods and people.
- Healthcare Enhancements: The NDC proposes to expand the Ho Teaching Hospital to provide specialist services and establish a quaternary hospital in the Volta Region to attract medical tourism. Further, trauma centres, clinics, and rest stops are to be constructed along key corridors such as Accra-Aflao and Tema-Afienya-Ho.
- Digital and Educational Investments: The NDC plans to establish a regional digital centre modelled after the Accra Digital Center to provide a hub for technological innovation. Moreover, specialized Artificial Intelligence labs will be introduced in selected secondary schools across the region to foster skills in emerging technologies.
- Coastal and Environmental Protection: To safeguard the coastline, the NDC will continue the coastal sea defence project. Additionally, dredging the Volta Lake and other river bodies is proposed to prevent flooding and boost the fishing industry.
- Compensation and Social Justice: The NDC is committed to paying full compensation to victims of the Akosombo and Kpong Dam’s spillages, addressing long-standing grievances and ensuring social justice.
- Additional Educational Initiatives: The manifesto outlines plans to complete the establishment of additional campuses for the University of Health and Allied Sciences in Keta and Battor, enhancing higher education opportunities in the region.
Conclusion: A Transformative Vision: The NDC’s manifesto presents a comprehensive development plan that seeks to unlock the full potential of the Volta Region. With a focus on infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, and digital innovation, the NDC aims to position the Volta Region as a major economic hub within Ghana, enhancing the quality of life for its residents and fostering sustainable development.
Source: myjoyonline.com
