The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, has announced an initiative aimed at preventing chieftaincy disputes which mostly develop into protracted conflicts.

He said the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC), Volta Regional House Chiefs the Peace Council will form a synergy toward achieving the objectives in his jurisdiction.

He was addressing the coronation ceremony of the Chief of Dome-Kpornuga, Togbi Ekpē Subo V, Agbotadua Amesimeku, and Mama Yeshike Subo II all of Anlo all of Anlo-Afiadenyigba Traditional Area.

“I have had discussions with the Regional Peace Council and House of Chiefs to organize capacity-building programs for our chiefs on peacebuilding and development. We are planning to institute an annual award scheme for the most peaceful traditional area in the region as well”, he said.

He added that the government has identified the roles of chiefs in the decision-making and development of the country, hence creating the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs.

“The reason for the creation of the Ministry is to ensure a sustainable collaboration between the local government, chiefs and religious leaders. It is also to revive their interest in dealings of the assemblies and restore their dignity”, he explained.

Mr. Gunu appealed for the support of the chiefs in the confirmation of the President's nominees for the positions of Municipal and District Chief Executives “for an early implementation of the government’s resetting agenda.”

He implored the residents to support the government’s initiatives, including the National Sanitation Day, which will be announced by President Mahama soon.

“I want us all to take interest in the National Sanitation Day initiative which is aimed at promoting improved sanitation, good health, and well-being”, he said.

Mr. Gunu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to delivering on all its promises, urging the citizenry to take cognizance in the abolishing of the E-levy and betting tax.

“Didn’t he remove the E-levy, betting tax, has it not been removed? Torgbuio, Mamao, we must continue to pray for the government, President Mahama, and the Vice President so we can deliver all the development plans we have for the Volta Region. Keta Sea Defense Project, Keta Harbor, our roads, educational and health issues will all be addressed”, he stressed.

He lauded the Afiadenyigba Traditional Area for conducting the installation of the three rulers peacefully, urging them to continue with the legacy of their forebearers in projecting the name of Anlo-Afiadenyigba.

The Chief of Dome-Kpornuga, Togbi Ekpē Subo V, who is a senior specialist obstetrician and gynecologist said their installation marks a new beginning for the Afiadenyigha Traditional Area.

He shared knowledge of the significant challenges in the areas of health, education, and livelihood, promising to rally his compatriots, the government, and philanthropic organizations to resolve them.

He hinted at establishing an award scheme for pupils in the area to drive interest in academic excellence to improve the human resources of the area.

“Charity is said to begin at home. Therefore, to encourage our children to embrace learning in school and strive for excellence, I will institute the Ekpé Subo V Award for the best academic-performing student for different levels of education to be awarded each year at the right time. The modalities for instituting this award will be discussed with the appropriate authorities and announced in due course”, he said.

He appealed for the construction of the Weta-Anlo-Afidenyigba-Havedzi road network to open up the area to propel the growth of the local economy, which heavily relies on agro-business.

The Paramount Chief of Anlo-Afiadenyigba, Apotsle Togbi Kadzahlo Drabese IV entreated the new chiefs and queen to be guided by the “voice of God and the oaths you swore” in leading their division.

He underscored the urgent need to equip the health facilities to function effectively, emphasizing the provision of a place of convenience.

The Chief of Kedzi, Togbi Tagbo urged chiefs to “resist political pressure and remain steadfast”, underscoring the significance of the Chieftaincy institution in the development of the country.

“As you ascend the throne, I urge you to be a beacon of unity and development. Listen to your people, uphold justice, and always strive to leave a legacy of progress. Be a champion of education, healthcare, and economic empowerment in your community.

“Work hand in hand with all stakeholders - traditional leaders, the government, and private partners - to bring lasting development to your people. Let your leadership be marked by fairness, integrity, and service to the common good”, he advised.