The summit is part of the ongoing Volta Trade and Investment Fair

The event brought together women from across the region to exhibit a variety of locally made products, including pomade, cookies, and kente cloth. Attendees were also treated to cultural performances and music from Venunye. The summit was moderated by Ms. Joyce Dzidzor.

Keynote Address

The special guest and keynote speaker, Hon. Benita Sena Okity-Duah, National Coordinator of the Free SHS Secretariat, former MP, and former Deputy Minister for Gender, emphasized the crucial role women play in sustaining Ghana’s economy.
She highlighted the challenges women entrepreneurs face and noted that the summit aims to provide solutions that will help their businesses grow. Hon. Okity-Duah also mentioned various government initiatives that support women, including soft loans, vocational and IT training, and provisions for registering even the smallest businesses.

Solidarity Messages

Solidarity messages were delivered by representatives from the Department of Gender and Children, Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), Volta Queen Mothers, and other institutions.

In her message, Mama Bobi III, Queen Mother of Bake, Ho-Bankoe, encouraged participants to build connections with accomplished women entrepreneurs. She advised them to seek mentorship rather than harbour jealousy, stressing that networking is vital for business growth.
Mama Bobi III urged the women to keep proper records of all transactions, register their businesses, and certify their products. As a judge, she emphasized that documentation is critical when resolving disputes in court.

Representatives of the Ghana Enterprises Agency also reminded participants of the importance of business registration and product certification, including registration with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA).

Remarks from Mama Blemeali Afeanyetornye III

Speaking to the media, Mama Blemeali Afeanyetornye III, Queen Mother of Afife in Ketu North, explained that the Women Entrepreneurship Summit was integrated into the regional trade fair to ensure proper representation of women entrepreneurs.
She noted that agencies such as GIPA, GEA, and GIPC, along with seasoned entrepreneurs, were brought on board to help participants share challenges and learn strategies for expanding locally and internationally.

According to her, this year marks the second edition of the summit, following the success of the maiden event. She acknowledged the impressive agricultural produce, kente, and other products showcased, adding that with improved packaging, these goods could reach international markets.

Mama Blemeali III also appealed for more sponsorship to sustain the summit, describing funding as their biggest challenge. She praised the support of past and present regional ministers, and commended Ghana Commercial Bank (GCB) for sponsoring the program. She called on other banks, mentors both male and female and the media to support future editions.

Zilideon’s Support

Following Mama Blemeali’s appeal, Zilideon, Ho’s local business directory, pledged to support Volta women entrepreneurs by offering affordable advertising packages to help boost their businesses.

Entrepreneurial Excellence Recognized

Two outstanding Volta women entrepreneurs were honoured with the Mawuena Adzo Dumor Entrepreneur Award for their contribution to Ghana’s economy. Their inspiring journeys were shown in a short video.

Mama Nyonyo II of Akoefe, Afetorfia, founder and CEO of Akosombo Catering (13 years in operation), and Madam Elizabeth Aku, founder of Kawa Moka Coffee Roasters of Leklebi (10 years in operation), both received citations.

The award body also recognized the Volta Regional Minister for his dedication and support toward women’s development in the region.

<p>The post AGE and VRCC Host 2nd Women Entrepreneurship Summit in Ho first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

The vision of a peaceful, borderless, and prosperous West Africa can only be realized through the active participation and understanding of the youth. In line with this belief, the sensitization workshop in Ho aimed to empower the next generation with knowledge of ECOWAS protocols and foster a sense of belonging to the regional community.

Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, in his welcome address, emphasized the vital role of young people in driving regional integration. He noted that the youth are the backbone of society, and their involvement in ECOWAS initiatives is crucial to achieving the region’s development goals.

Hon. Gunu encouraged the students to take full advantage of the workshop to gain a deeper understanding of ECOWAS and its projects in Ghana.

The ECOWAS Ambassador to Ghana, Ambassador Mohammed Lawal Gana, delivered an insightful presentation on ECOWAS and its various interventions in the country. He highlighted the progress the regional body has made in areas such as trade, agriculture, and infrastructure development.

The Ambassador also reiterated that the youth represent the future of West Africa, and their active engagement is essential for the success of regional integration efforts.

<p>The post Regional Sensitization Workshop on ECOWAS Protocols Held for Senior High and Tertiary Students in Ho first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

He noted that the Assembly will intensify its monitoring to ensure the items and funds are not diverted or misused. Hon. Adom further appealed to the families of the beneficiaries to support and guide them in making good use of the assistance. He also warned families and guardians against seizing the items or funds from the beneficiaries.

The MCE commended President John Mahama for providing funding to support persons living with disability. He added that more beneficiaries are expected to be supported in the second quarter of the programme.

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the gesture. One recipient, who had been working as an apprentice due to a lack of resources, said the sewing machine she received will now enable her to open her own shop. Another beneficiary also appreciated the Assembly for providing her with a sewing machine after she could not afford one upon completing her training.

Speaking to reporters, the Chairman of the Disability Common Fund Management Committee, Mr. Alex Kwasi Akpo, revealed that this is the 34th time the Assembly has extended support to persons living with disability.

He explained that the programme excludes individuals already employed in the government sector, focusing instead on those who want to start their own businesses, require educational support, need mobility aids such as walking sticks or wheelchairs, or need health insurance assistance.

A total of 76 beneficiaries received support under the Assembly’s Common Fund. Six people received 250-litre refrigerators, while another six received a bag of rice each, a gallon of cooking oil, two cartons of soap, one carton of tin tomatoes, and cash support.

A journalist was provided with a new laptop to enhance his work.

Mr. Akpo added that the Assembly has extended its support to mentally challenged individuals as well and encouraged families to help in caring for them.

<p>The post Ho Municipal Assembly Donates Support Items to Persons Living with Disability first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

Friday’s forum brought together business owners, investors, traditional leaders, and policymakers to explore and promote the economic opportunities within the Volta Region.

In his opening address, Volta Regional Minister Hon. James Gunu described the Volta corridor as “the boiling pot” of President John Dramani Mahama’s 24-Hour Economy agenda. According to him, the corridor is one of Ghana’s most strategically endowed development zones, serving as a key intersection for trade, energy, agriculture, tourism, and innovation.

“From the Aflao border through the Keta Lagoon Basin to Ho, and from Kpando to the Oti interface, our geography connects markets,” he emphasized.

Hon. Gunu stated that the region is actively repositioning itself as a strategic economic corridor to support the 24-Hour Economy vision. He explained that the agenda challenges stakeholders to expand productivity and ensure reliable energy to drive infrastructure development, manufacturing, and sustainable job creation—particularly for the youth and women.

He highlighted that the forum provides a crucial platform for collaboration among government agencies, investors, traditional authorities, and development partners.

According to him, districts within the region have profiled over 50 investment-ready projects across various sectors, including agro-processing, aquaculture, eco-tourism, logistics, ICT, and renewable energy. The VRCC, he said, is working closely with the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre and the 24-Hour Economy Secretariat to ensure that these business opportunities are viable, well-supported, and sustainable.

He encouraged investors to see the Volta Region as a destination where enterprises can thrive long-term, adding that authorities are committed to translating discussions into real economic development for the people.

Speaking at the forum, Dr. Elikplim Afetorgbor reiterated the region’s strong potential to drive Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy. He described the gathering as a strategic call to investors, innovators, and nation-builders to anchor the policy within the Volta corridor.

Dr. Afetorgbor outlined three key reasons the region is uniquely positioned to support the 24-Hour Economy:

1. Strategic Transportation Links:
   The Eastern Corridor Road, Lake Volta transport system, and the Aflao Border post place the region at a major gateway for national and international trade.
2. Strong Local Market Base:
   The region’s agricultural and fisheries value chains—spanning cocoa, cassava, fisheries, and more—provide essential raw materials for industry.
3. Policy Alignment and Incentives:
   The 24-Hour Economy agenda, VRCC incentives, and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture’s value chain interventions create a supportive and enabling environment for investment.

He further identified five economic pillars within the region capable of fueling the 24-Hour Economy policy:

• Pillar A: Agro-Processing & Food Systems
  Opportunities in Adaklu, Central Tongu, Ho West, Akatsi North, Akatsi South, and Ketu North, focusing on cassava, maize, and groundnut.
• Pillar B: The Blue Economy
  Aquaculture, cold chain development, and coastal value addition in Anloga, Keta, Ketu South, and lakeside districts.
• Pillar C: Cultural & Tourism Economy
  Attractions and cultural assets in Afadzato South, Hohoe, Kpando, and surrounding communities.
• Pillar D: Light Manufacturing, ICT & Business Processing
  Investment opportunities within Ho Municipality.
• Pillar E: Logistics, Warehousing & Border Trade
  Prospects in Ketu South and North Tongu.

The Chairman of the Forum, Togbe Nyaho Tamakloe, stressed that agriculture remains the backbone of Ghana’s economy. He noted that the Volta Region is the second-largest producer of rice in the country and a major hub for maize, cassava, and vegetable production. However, he added that infrastructural challenges continue to limit the region from reaching its full agricultural potential.

<p>The post Volta Economic Forum Highlights Region’s Role in Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy Vision first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

“I believe the greatest resource we have is human. You do not have to have gold to become rich. Our minds are bigger than any resource in the world,” Togbe Afiatsoa declared.

Focus on Youth and Entrepreneurship

Togbe Afiatsoa III announced that his foremost priority is to encourage and educate the youth to become entrepreneurs. He revealed that discussions with potential investors are already underway to support young people in establishing sustainable businesses. While acknowledging that recent chieftaincy disputes had slowed progress, he assured that plans are back on track and will soon take effect.

Agricultural Development as Backbone

Highlighting agriculture as the backbone of Ghana’s economy, the Dutor expressed concern that despite Ho’s annual yam festival, the region cannot boast of large-scale yam cultivation. To address this, he outlined plans to establish mechanized farms in areas such as Akoefe, Kpenoe, and Takla. He further emphasized the economic potential of cassava farming, noting its value in producing ethanol for alcoholic beverages and other industries.

Togbe Afiatsoa also proposed that proceeds from the recently concluded yam festival be reinvested into agricultural projects to create jobs for the youth.

Technology and Cybersecurity Training

In addition to agriculture, the Dutor announced an upcoming conference on cybersecurity aimed at equipping young people with digital skills. He disclosed that between five and ten participants will be offered free slots for specialized training, which he intends to personally deliver.

A Vision for the Future

Togbe Afiatsoa III’s initiatives, spanning agriculture, entrepreneurship, and technology, reflect a comprehensive vision to transform the Volta Region into a hub of innovation and productivity. His call to action places the youth at the center of development, positioning them as the drivers of economic growth and social progress.

<p>The post Togbe Afiatsoa III Outlines Bold Plans for Youth Empowerment and Agricultural Development first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

Speaking at the launch, President Mahama said the Volta Region was chosen as the starting point because of its long history of neglected and deplorable roads. “We are launching it in the Volta region because over the years Volta region has had some of the most neglected, abandoned roads in the country,” he stated.

Key Details of the Big Push

• Funding: $10 billion allocated for nationwide road projects.
• Payments: Contractors will be paid promptly, with the Finance Minister assuring that certificates raised will be settled within two weeks.
• Oversight: A dedicated Big Push Secretariat will be established under the Office of the President, staffed with engineers to monitor progress.
• Coverage: Major roads, including the Atimpoku–Ho–Aflao corridor, are among those earmarked for construction and rehabilitation.

President Mahama emphasized that Ghanaian construction companies will be prioritized, citing First Sky Group as an example of local contractors performing at international standards. He also encouraged firms to recruit unemployed young engineers to contribute to national development.

“Let us bear with the temporary inconvenience caused by construction works,” the president appealed to road users, urging the public to cooperate with contractors.

Roads in Volta Region Captured Under the Project

The president listed several roads, including:

• Abetsi Metrikasa road
• Atsiavi road
• Rehabilitation of Asikuma Junction–Anyirawase road
• Reconstruction of Anyirawase–Ho–Titrinu to Ho Gunuise Depot road
• Ho Airport second gate access roads
• Ho–Kpetoe–Afiadenyigba rehabilitation, including Ziofe town roads

Road Minister’s Remarks

Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Kwame Agbodza, praised the initiative as the president’s flagship solution to Ghana’s deteriorating road infrastructure. He revealed that six to seven months were spent on road studies, design, and costing before contracts were awarded.

He challenged Ghanaian contractors to prove their capabilities by delivering high-quality roads and pledged that the Atimpoku to Aflao road will be completed as promised. He also echoed the president’s call for construction firms to recruit young engineers.

Traditional Authority’s Support

The event was attended by Togbe Afede XIV, who commended the government for prioritizing infrastructure in the Volta Region. He described the launch as “a big day for the people of the Volta Region” and a long-awaited response to decades of poor road networks.

<p>The post President Mahama Cut Sod for Construction of 177Km Atimpiku Ho-Aflao Under the Big Push first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>

“We have richer land than Cape Coast, yet food is more expensive here,” he noted. “It’s time to use what we have to address the high cost of food and create opportunities for our youth.”

Central to his development strategy is a plan to support youth-led farming initiatives, with a focus on staple crops like cassava and sweet potatoes.

The MCE believes that investing in agriculture is not just a path to food security but a key driver of the municipality’s economy.

As part of this vision, Hon. Adom announced plans to establish a fertilizer factory in Ho. “I am currently searching for 10 acres of land to build the factory, ideally near the proposed farming sites.

This project will not only provide direct employment for our youth but also support farmers and attract agribusiness investment into the municipality,” he said.

The proposed fertilizer factory is expected to serve both local farmers and potentially export to neighbouring countries, further boosting economic growth.

Hon. Adom emphasized his commitment to working closely with traditional leaders and local communities to realize this vision.

“I cannot do this alone. I am committed to working hand-in-hand with our chiefs and the entire region to make this a success.”

As gold and crude oil remain absent in the municipality, the MCE believes agriculture remains Ho’s most reliable path to prosperity.

<p>The post Ho MCE Eyes Agribusiness to Drive Local Development and Reduce Food Prices first appeared on Zilideon News.</p>