By Aseye Kpodo
For decades, the Volta Region has stood as one of Ghana’s most loyal and politically consistent regions, a stronghold whose unwavering commitment to national development, particularly under the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has remained unshaken. Yet, despite this loyalty, the region has not received its fair share of Ghana’s development dividend.
The Volta Region, blessed with immense natural resources, fertile lands, industrious human capital, and a vibrant cultural identity, continues to grapple with visible developmental neglect. From inadequate infrastructure to limited industrial investment and poor access to social amenities, many communities in the region still struggle to enjoy the basic conditions necessary for modern living.
Across key sectors such as health, education, roads, agriculture, and job creation, the development gap remains glaring. Roads connecting major towns like Ho, Keta, Kpando, and Hohoe to rural communities are in deplorable condition. Farmers in Anlo, Akatsi, and North Tongu districts continue to record post-harvest losses due to the absence of modern storage and agro-processing facilities. Hospitals in several districts remain under-equipped, while schools in remote communities operate in dilapidated structures, depriving children of quality education.
The situation has also contributed to a growing sense of frustration among the youth, many of whom are unemployed despite their skills and potential. Without deliberate and sustained investment, the Volta Region risks losing its young population to urban migration, further widening the economic disparity between Ghana’s regions.
However, there appears to be a renewed sense of optimism under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama. His government’s renewed focus on inclusive and equitable development across all regions has given many Voltarians fresh hope. President Mahama has repeatedly expressed his determination to change the development narrative of the Volta Region through improved infrastructure, expanded social services, and targeted economic growth initiatives.
In line with this renewed commitment, the Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, has outlined an ambitious but achievable goal to ensure that every community in the region has access to potable water. This initiative, once realized, will have far-reaching benefits, improving public health, sanitation, and the overall quality of life across the region.
But vision alone will not drive development. The President’s agenda can only succeed if his appointees and political leaders from the Volta Region demonstrate unity, discipline, and a shared sense of purpose. The era of divided leadership, complacency, and internal wrangling must give way to collective action and accountability. Those entrusted with responsibility at the regional and district levels must translate national policy into tangible results on the ground.
Development cannot remain a mere political slogan. The people of the Volta Region deserve more than promises; they deserve visible progress, fairness, and recognition for their loyalty and contributions to Ghana’s political stability. The NDC, a party that has enjoyed decades of trust from the Volta people, must now match its rhetoric with results.
Political appreciation must go beyond campaign words. It must reflect in the transformation of lives and communities. The Volta Region deserves:
Modern road and transport systems connecting rural communities to urban markets and trade corridors.
Expanded industrial zones and job creation initiatives to absorb the region’s teeming youth.
Upgraded healthcare and educational facilities that meet modern standards.
Tourism and investment incentives to unlock the region’s untapped economic potential.
Universal access to clean and safe drinking water for every household and community.
The region’s immense potential, from the lush greenery of the Afadjato ranges to the serene coastal plains of Keta, must be harnessed for national prosperity. It is time for a fair and balanced approach to development that recognizes every region’s worth.
The Volta Region has waited long enough. Development is not a privilege; it is a right that every Ghanaian, regardless of location, deserves. This is not a call for favoritism; it is a call for fairness, justice, and inclusion.
As President Mahama sets out to change the narrative, the people of the Volta Region remain hopeful that this time, promises will translate into progress and loyalty will finally meet reward.
Thank you, Mr. President, for reigniting hope and demonstrating commitment to a more inclusive and equitable Ghana.