Revitalising Akrofu: A call for economic investment, infrastructure dev’t in V/R

Akrofu is a serene territory within the Ho Central Constituency of the Volta Region. The inhabitants are mainly involved in a peasant subsistence economy.

Against the backdrop of the unique history of their existence, they have been identified for their small-scale agricultural heritage.

Particularly, regarding their specialization in Okro cultivation. It is for this reason that the people of Ho and its environs patronise the okro from Akrofu for its high nutritional quality.

Consequently, the name Akrofu became synonymous with quality okro, making it a highly sought-after commodity in the local markets.

However, over the years, Akrofu has shifted from its once-thriving okro production and transitioned to rice farming. Unfortunately, this paradigm shift has not been as successful, and the rice farming venture has not seen the same level of success and prosperity that okro production was associated with.

H.E. Paskal A.B. Rois, (a.ka. Togbe Africa) an industrious citizen of Akrofu and the Honorary Consul of Indonesia in Ghana, is inviting investors from Indonesia to explore opportunities in mechanized and commercial production of okro and rice. This will provide more sustainable benefits and development for the people of Akrofu.

The objective is to create long-term economic growth within Akrofu and its environs. This is consistent with the five-year strategic plan, which has been developed for the purpose.

In addition to promoting agricultural development, H.E. Paskal A.B. Rois is also advocating for the restoration and improvement of vital infrastructure in Akrofu. One of his key concerns is the deteriorating condition of the only clinic, which serves as the primary health facility for the community. He is calling on Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to step in and assist with the rehabilitation of the clinic, which is in dire need of repairs and additional resources to provide adequate healthcare to the residents.

Furthermore, Akrofu’s educational system is in need of attention. The school lacks necessary facilities and resources. H.E. Paskal A.B. Rois is pleading with both government and stakeholders to ensure that the children of Akrofu have access to a quality education in an environment conducive for learning.

Despite the presence of electricity and portable water, infrastructure such as roads and mobile network connectivity remain inadequate. The roads connecting Akrofu to Ho, the regional capital, are in poor condition, and the mobile network is so weak that making and receiving calls often becomes a strenuous task. H.E. Rois has taken it upon himself to request that the Minister for Roads, Hon. Kwame Agbodza, and the Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, address these pressing issues. A properly functioning road network and enhanced mobile connectivity will not only ease daily activities for the people of Akrofu but also facilitate economic development by improving access to markets, services, and information.

Another significant cultural activity is SASA Festival. It is a festival celebrated by four related towns which are Sovie, Akrofu, Saviewofe and Alavamyo. This rotational festival is scheduled to be celebrated in the year 2025 in Akrofu.

As a royal of Buoh Alorsor clan of Akrofu, H.E Paskal A.B Rois is encouraging the chiefs and the people of Akrofu to smoke a peace pipe to enable development of the town to the benefit of everyone. Unity is key for every development. This is consistent with the cliché wich states that "together we stand divided we fall".

His plea for attention to Akrofu’s challenges is rooted in his deep love for his hometown and a commitment to uplifting his people towards better opportunities.

In conclusion, Akrofu, once a shining example of agricultural success, now stands at a crossroad. With the support of the government, NGOs, and foreign investors, there is a significant opportunity to revitalize the community by investing in mechanized farming, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. As Akrofu moves toward a brighter future, it is imperative that the village receives the attention it deserves, ensuring that it, too, can contribute to the growth and development of Ghana.

Together, let’s work to make Akrofu a place of opportunity, prosperity, and hope for all its residents.