International Leadership Consultant and Peace Ambassador, Dr. Donald Cog Senanu Agumenu, has passionately pleaded for collective action in tackling critical issues facing the people of Dzodze in the Volta Region and Ghana.

With urgency in his voice and conviction in his message, Dr. Agumenu who was Chairperson of this year's Deza Festival grand durbar, delivered a speech that resonated deeply with attendees, urging them to seize the moment and chart a path of progress through agribusiness, unity, and responsible leadership.

The theme of this year's Deza Festival, "Unlocking Opportunities in Agribusiness," set the tone for Dr. Agumenu’s passionate call for change.

He lamented the devastating effects of climate change and illegal mining, which have wreaked havoc on the environment and local livelihoods.

Dr. Agumenu did not shy away from highlighting the failures in political will, stating rather boldly that "law and order have been relegated to the background in tackling these serious human and environmental catastrophes."

His words echoed across the festival grounds as he called for a united front to combat corruption, strengthen infrastructure, and develop agribusiness opportunities.

"We must invest in agricultural innovation, modern farming techniques, and value addition to farm produce," Dr. Agumenu emphasised, calling for a transformative approach to agribusiness that empowers citizens and creates sustainable jobs.

The festival, which celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the people of Dzodze, also became a platform for Dr. Agumenu to address broader national concerns.

He highlighted the rising menace of chieftaincy disputes and the growing misuse of digital platforms to spread division, particularly among Ghana’s youth.

"The digital age has introduced a new dimension to conflict," he warned, calling on the youth to use social media responsibly and to "uphold the respect and reverence due to our traditional leaders."

Dr. Agumenu also turned his attention to the rampant issue of drug abuse among Ghana’s youth. With visible concern, he declared, "We need to act quickly to safeguard and protect our future leaders from destruction."

His call for immediate action underscored the urgency of tackling the growing social vices enveloping communities.

And in an uncompromising stance, Dr. Agumenu also spoke out against secessionist movements, urging Ghanaians to protect the sovereignty of their nation at all costs, referencing the ongoing trial of a local police officer alleged to be involved in such activities.

He appealed to the judiciary for justice while reaffirming the supremacy of the nation’s unity.

In a gesture of profound generosity and commitment to community development, Dr. Agumenu announced a personal pledge of GHȼ100,000 to establish the Dzodze Development Fund (DDF).

His vision for the DDF is clear – to pool resources for critical infrastructure, education, agriculture, and vocational training that would ensure Dzodze’s growth and prosperity.

"To wait for central government subvention to meet all development needs will not be the best," he stated, urging the people of Dzodze to take control of their future.

As Ghana prepares for yet another crucial election in December, Dr. Agumenu’s closing remarks were a resounding call for peace and transparency.

He appealed to all Ghanaians to conduct themselves with dignity during the election period and stressed the importance of upholding the integrity of the electoral process.

Dr. Agumenu called upon the people of Dzodze to remain united, expressing pride in their cultural heritage and the potential for a brighter future.

"Today is for Dzodze, and all of us are proud of our Deza," he declared, leaving the crowd with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.

The grand durbar of Deza 2024 will be remembered not only for its celebration of culture but also for Dr. Agumenu’s impassioned call to action – a call to protect the environment, invest in the future, and preserve the unity and dignity of Dzodze and Ghana as a whole.