The Volta Regional House of Chiefs under the auspices of the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs has inaugurated six new traditional councils in its jurisdiction.

The inauguration of the Agotime, Ave-Dakpa, Sokpoe, Agave, Anfoeta, and Klefe traditional councils is aimed at deepening decentralisation and streamlining the administrative powers of traditional authorities.

It marks a significant step in empowering these traditional areas, providing them with greater autonomy and a structured platform to manage local affairs through their cultural practices.

The Chief Registrar of the Chieftaincy Ministry, Baafi Nsiah emphasised the importance of traditional councils in maintaining social cohesion and promoting development.

"Our Traditional Councils are not just custodians of our rich cultural heritage but also partners in fostering peace and development in our communities.

"This inauguration will ensure that these councils have the legal framework to function efficiently and contribute to local governance," he said.

He further stated that the Ministry has been mandated to develop an effective interface between the government, traditional authorities, religious bodies, and civil society organisations on chieftaincy and religious affairs, to promote good governance, development, and peace.

The Registrar of the Volta Regional House of Chiefs, Harry Attipoe clarified that the inauguration of these councils was in line with the country's laws, and not simply a private arrangement between the Ministry and the Chiefs.

"We are here to conduct this inauguration based on Section 12 (1) of the Chieftaincy Act of 2008, Act 759, which mandates the institution of a traditional council within each traditional area. 'There shall be a Traditional Council in each Traditional area'," he stated.

Mr Attipoe added that the Ministry plans to inaugurate a total of 80 traditional councils in the Volta Region by November 2024.

The Konor (Paramount Chief) of the Agotime Traditional Area and President of the Agotime Traditional Council, Nene Neur Keteku IV expressed optimism the provision of the Council would play a role in harnessing development in the area.

"We are grateful to the government for this recognition. Our council is determined to use this opportunity to strengthen our community bonds and work with the government to bring development to our people", he said.

He added that the council will serve as a repository of their customs and traditions and represents a new beginning to streamline activities of the chieftaincy institution, with a focus on promoting peace, unity, and development.

The President of the Ave-Dakpa Traditional Council, Torgbui Nyamekor Glakpe V reaffirmed his commitment to use the Council as a conduit to foster justice, peace, and unity within the traditional area.