Story By: Juliet Akosua Danquah
The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has expressed unwavering confidence that the establishment of the Volta Economic Zone will be a game-changer for the Volta Region, catapulting it to unprecedented heights of development and significantly enhancing the well-being of its residents.
Speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama at the grand finale of the 2025 Hogbetsotso Festival, Debrah emphasized that this initiative marks a watershed moment in the region’s growth trajectory. He noted that the Volta Economic Zone will unlock new opportunities for economic growth, create jobs, and improve the standard of living for the people of Volta.
Debrah’s fervent hope is that with the successful creation of the Volta Economic Zone, Ghana will experience a seismic shift in its economic fortunes, and the lives of its citizens will be transformed for the better. He urged the people to support the government’s initiative, saying that collective effort and determination would be necessary to drive the region’s development. The proposed economic zone is a key component of President Mahama’s vision to unlock the vast potential of the Volta Lake and its basin, transforming it into a thriving industrial hub that will drive the country’s 24-hour economy policy.
While the Volta Lake has long been a source of hydroelectric power, contributing significantly to Ghana’s energy supply, its broader economic potential remains largely untapped. The Volta Economic Corridor is poised to be a linchpin of the 24-hour Economy Programme, which aims to reposition the Volta Basin as a national production zone and logistics artery, unlocking new opportunities for economic growth and development. The programme will focus on developing infrastructure, promoting entrepreneurship, and creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
The economic zone will feature the cultivation of over two million hectares of arable lakeside land, revitalization of fisheries for both domestic and export markets, and the establishment of industrial parks to process agricultural products and manufacture essential goods. Additionally, the Volta Lake will be developed into a fully functional transport corridor, linking northern food production areas with southern markets and export terminals, reducing logistics costs and boosting trade efficiency. This will not only enhance the region’s economic prospects but also improve the overall quality of life for the people.
Debrah’s remarks coincided with the vibrant celebrations of Hogbetsotso Za 2025, which drew thousands of visitors to the Anloga-Keta corridor, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and economic potential of the region. The week-long festival featured a range of activities, including street carnivals, children’s durbars, unity concerts, and traditional rites, highlighting the importance of cultural events in stimulating economic activity and promoting national unity. The festival also provided a platform for discussions on regional development initiatives, including proposals to upgrade Ohawu Agricultural College into a university to promote agricultural research, innovation, and job creation.
