The Volta Development Forum (VDF) has announced plans to honour Col. (Rtd.) Cyril Necku and the late Dumega Raymond Okudzeto for their pioneering roles in the establishment of the Volta Trade and Investment Fair—an initiative that has grown into the region’s flagship platform for promoting commerce, investment, and economic growth.

The recognition will take place at this year’s Volta Trade and Investment Fair, which is being organised under the auspices of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC).

According to the VDF, Col. (Rtd.) Necku and the late Dumega Okudzeto were instrumental in conceptualising the fair, laying the foundation for what would become a transformative annual event showcasing the Volta Region’s potential across sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, services, and innovation.

In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Dan Kojo Agboka-Dzegede, the Forum described Col. Necku as “a true patriot whose dedication to the progress of the Volta Region helped birth a lasting legacy.”

The late Dumega Okudzeto was also commended as a visionary whose passion for the region’s development inspired the early drive toward institutionalising the fair.

“Their combined leadership, foresight, and commitment laid a firm foundation that continues to shape and inspire subsequent fairs,” the statement noted. “As a grateful organisation and long-standing partner in the organisation of the fair, the VDF finds it important and timely to honour these distinguished sons of the region for their extraordinary contributions.”

The VDF also extended commendation to two regional leaders—former Volta Regional Minister, Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, and current Regional Minister, James Gunu.

Both are key members of the Forum and have played vital roles in sustaining and advancing the fair’s growth and its impact on regional development.

Their guidance, the VDF noted, has strengthened trade and investment opportunities and contributed to the fair’s evolution as a strategic economic platform attracting both local and international participation.

The Forum reaffirmed its full support for the Volta Regional Coordinating Council as preparations intensify for a successful 2025 edition of the fair, which is expected to draw businesses, exhibitors, investors, and development partners from across the country and beyond.