The Sixth Volta Trade and Investment Fair has been inaugurated in Ho, the capital of the Volta region, with the goal of uniting over 400 exhibitors and more than 4,000 visitors to enhance trade opportunities. Organized by the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), the fair is themed “Leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area for Local Economic Development” and is scheduled to take place from November 26 to December 10 at the Ho Sports Stadium.
Dr. Angela Lusigi, the Resident Representative of the UNDP, was the special guest of honor who officially launched the fair. She commended the organizers for their initiative and emphasized the commendable economic empowerment benefits the event can bring about. Dr. Lusigi highlighted the strategic advantages of the Volta region to benefit from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) due to its fertile lands, picturesque landscapes, industrial growth, and youthful population. She mentioned UNDP’s active involvement in aiding Ghana’s rural development through various support programs, including climate-safe rice cultivation.
Dr. Lusigi outlined the UNDP’s commitment to enhancing continental free trade in four key areas: digital infrastructure, agricultural promotion, human capital investment, and tourism advancement.
Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, the Volta Regional Minister, emphasized that the fair provides an opportunity to showcase the region’s potential and pride. He envisions Volta becoming a production and export hub, with the private sector at its core, and encouraged the local populace to seize the favorable environment for local economic growth.
The Volta Trade and Investment Fair is a collaborative effort involving the AGI, the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, the National AfCFTA Coordination Office, and other institutions such as the Ghana Tourism Authority and the Ghana Export Promotion Authority.
The event will host indigenous companies from Togo, Kenya, Nigeria, and India, with a series of side events including seminars, business forums, innovation contests related to AfCFTA, regional tours, and an automotive industry roundtable.
Togbe Doglo Anoma VI, the Paramount Chief of Avenor Traditional Area, chaired the launch and pledged traditional leaders’ ongoing support for the event’s economic and developmental goals. The fair’s timing coincides with the Asogli Te Za (Yam Festival), further boosting the activity and vibrancy of the regional capital during the period.
Source : GNA NEWS
