Unlocking Ghana's Hidden Treasure: The Untapped Potential of the Volta Economy Corridor- GLOMEF CEO

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Unlocking Ghana's Hidden Treasure: The Untapped Potential of the Volta Economy Corridor- GLOMEF CEO

The Chief Executive Officer of Global Media Foundation, Mr. Raphael Godlove Ahenu, has described the Volta Economy Corridor, particularly the Afram Plains, as a largely untapped economic treasure that could significantly transform Ghana’s rural economy if properly developed.

Following a recent visit to the Afram Plains North District, Mr. Ahenu said he was struck by the enormous economic potential of the area and disheartened by the decades of systemic neglect by successive governments. In an interview, he noted that the corridor, rich in fertile land and located along Lake Volta, could serve as a major driver of food security, employment, and national development.

“The Volta Economy Corridor, anchored in and around the Afram Plains, has the potential to radically transform the economic fortunes of this country, especially in agriculture and lake transport,” Mr. Ahenu stated.

According to him, the region remains one of the most naturally gifted in Ghana, boasting vast arable lands suitable for both crop cultivation and livestock production. However, he said that these advantages remain largely underutilized due to poor infrastructure, limited investment, and policy indifference.

“The area continues to suffer from appalling roads, dilapidated infrastructure, and a lack of essential public services. Communities are trapped in underdevelopment because of chronic neglect,” Mr. Ahenu lamented.

The Afram Plains, situated across parts of the Eastern and Volta Regions, has historically been known as a food basket due to its favourable agricultural conditions. Yet, Mr. Ahenu described the developmental gap between the region and the rest of the country as stark, citing poor roads, non-existent electricity in many communities, under-resourced schools and health centres, and weak digital connectivity.

He identified the deplorable condition of the main Konongo–Agogo–Maame Krobo–Donkokrom road as one of the most pressing barriers to development. “The road becomes impassable during the rainy season, cutting off entire communities from markets, schools, and hospitals,” he said.

Beyond agriculture, Mr. Ahenu emphasized the strategic importance of Lake Volta, describing it as a “sleeping giant” in Ghana’s transport sector. He said the lake offers opportunities for cheap, efficient transportation of goods and people, as well as potential for tourism and aquaculture expansion.

“If developed properly, lake transport could open up the Afram Plains and link it to other regions. Inland ports and ferry services would make movement of goods easier and reduce transportation costs,” he noted.

Mr. Ahenu also welcomed the recent launch of the Volta Economy Corridor Programme by the government, which aims to develop infrastructure, promote agricultural productivity, and improve lake transport in the area. He described the initiative as a potentially transformative step, but cautioned that the success of the programme would depend on political will and consistent implementation.

“The programme sounds promising, but many communities remain skeptical. Over the years, similar initiatives have been announced only to fizzle out after elections. What the people need now is action, not promises,” he said.

He called on government to engage with local communities, civil society, and the private sector to ensure the programme is inclusive and effective. He also urged for transparency and measurable results in implementing the development plans.

Mr. Ahenu noted that the Volta Economy Corridor presents an opportunity to decentralize development and reduce urban migration by empowering rural economies. He stressed that sustained commitment and genuine investment are needed to unlock the region’s potential and bring tangible benefits to the people of the Afram Plains.

“The story of the Afram Plains has been one of neglect and lost potential, but it doesn’t have to remain that way. With vision, commitment, and accountability, this region can become a model for rural transformation in Ghana,” he concluded.