Chief of Staff Julius Debrah Champions Investment Execution at Volta Economic Forum

Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has called for a strategic shift from identifying investment potential to the disciplined execution of projects within the Volta Region. Speaking at the second Volta Economic Forum held in Ho, Mr. Debrah emphasized that the region’s vast natural assets and rich cultural heritage must be converted into viable businesses that generate sustainable jobs and increase local incomes. He urged stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric and focus on creating a pipeline of investment-ready projects that can attract both domestic and international capital.

Central to this regional development strategy is the 'Volta Economic Corridor,' a national initiative designed to transform the region into a major production and trade hub. Under the development agenda of President John Mahama, the government is collaborating with the African Development Bank (AfDB) to secure financing and technical support for this corridor. Mr. Debrah highlighted that the success of these initiatives depends on collaboration between the state, private investors, and traditional authorities, specifically citing the need for chiefs to assist in securing land and building community confidence in new industrial ventures.

Volta Regional Minister James Gunu further outlined the economic pillars driving this transformation, focusing on agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and the 'blue economy' through sustainable fishing practices. To facilitate this growth, the Minister proposed the establishment of an industrial park at Adaklu, which is intended to serve as a magnet for manufacturing investments. These efforts are part of a broader vision to ensure that the region’s development is inclusive, particularly by fostering youth involvement in the emerging sectors.

To ensure long-term strategic guidance, the forum's Lead Convenor, Dr. Elikplim Apetorgbor, advocated for the creation of a Volta Development Advisory Council. This body would be tasked with overseeing project execution and providing expert advice on economic strategy to maintain momentum beyond the forum. As the event concluded, stakeholders expressed a unified commitment to transforming the Volta Region into a competitive economic powerhouse through sustainable practices and strengthened public-private partnerships.