In a poignant address during the 68th Aƒenorto Festival, Torgbe Korsi Nego VI, the Mankralo of the Mepe Traditional Area, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Corporate Ghana, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and foreign missions for their invaluable support in the wake of a recent disaster that severely impacted the community.

However, his message was not without a stern reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by the victims.

Torgbe Korsi Nego VI painted a grim picture of the current living conditions in the makeshift camps housing the displaced residents.

These temporary shelters, he noted, remain congested and are plagued by infestations of mosquitoes and reptiles, making life even more difficult for those who have already lost a lot. The traditional leader's concerns were not limited to the physical discomfort of the camps; he also highlighted the emotional and psychological toll on the victims who continued to endure these harsh conditions.

The Mankralo did not shy away from criticizing the Volta River Authority (VRA) for what he perceives as a lack of special consideration for the Mepe area in the aftermath of the disaster.

He expressed disappointment over the absence of targeted relief efforts that could have alleviated the suffering of the Mepe community. Additionally, Torgbe Korsi Nego VI voiced his frustration with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), accusing the company of exacerbating the community's hardships by imposing disconnections and issuing exorbitant bills, further burdening a population already struggling to recover.

Looking beyond the immediate challenges, Torgbe Korsi Nego VI called on the government, companies, and private organizations to explore and invest in mechanized agriculture in the region. He emphasized the vast potential of Mepe's arable land and abundant water bodies, which he believes could be harnessed to create sustainable jobs for the youth. This, he argued, would not only stimulate economic growth but also provide a pathway to long-term recovery and resilience for the community.

In his address, the traditional leader also made a passionate appeal for the reconstruction of critical infrastructure, particularly the Sege-Mepe-Dove road and the internal roads within Mepe Township.

He underscored the dire need for these repairs, noting that the current state of the roads hampers movement and further isolates the community.

Despite the challenges that have recently marred the Mepe traditional area, Torgbe Korsi Nego VI reaffirmed the enduring significance of the Aƒenorto Festival.

He described the festival as a powerful symbol of the strength and resilience of the people of Mepe, who continue to stand firm in the face of adversity.

Mankralo's words resonated with a call for unity, perseverance, and the continued support of all stakeholders to ensure that Mepe not only recovers but thrives in the future.