At the 2026 celebration of the Aboakyer Festival in Effutu, Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang reaffirmed the government’s commitment to national development, highlighting the importance of culture, unity, and strategic investment.
Addressing chiefs, residents, and visitors, she noted that the festival continues to serve as a vital platform for preserving identity and strengthening community bonds.
The Vice President also underscored the significance of the occasion, which coincided with the 30th anniversary of the reign of Oma Odefe Neenyi Ghartey VII. She described his leadership as exemplary, noting that it has contributed to stability and progress within the Effutu traditional area.
According to her, such leadership remains essential in fostering development at the local level.
Promoting Culture as a Development Tool
Professor Opoku Agyemang emphasised that cultural festivals like Aboakyer play a critical role beyond celebration. She explained that they offer an opportunity to rediscover traditions, preserve heritage, and promote identity to a wider audience.
In this regard, she said the government recognises culture as a valuable asset in national development. She stated that efforts are being made to position Effutu as a key tourism destination by investing in infrastructure and cultural enterprises.
These initiatives include improving access roads and enhancing facilities that support tourism activities. By doing so, the government aims to attract both domestic and international visitors, thereby creating jobs and stimulating economic activity in the area.
The Vice President noted that tourism development is not only about attracting visitors but also about empowering local communities. She indicated that increased tourism can provide new income opportunities for residents, particularly those engaged in small businesses and cultural industries.
Advancing Economic Opportunities
In outlining broader national initiatives, the Vice President highlighted the government’s commitment to expanding economic opportunities for citizens.
She pointed to the Women’s Development Bank as a key intervention designed to improve access to finance for women, including market traders, fish processors, and small scale entrepreneurs.
According to her, the initiative is intended to address longstanding challenges faced by women in accessing credit and financial services. By providing targeted support, the government aims to strengthen the role of women in economic development and improve livelihoods across communities.
She also spoke about the progress of the 24-hour economy policy, noting that preparations are underway to establish markets that operate beyond traditional business hours. This initiative, she explained, is expected to increase productivity, create employment, and support continuous economic activity across various sectors.
Focus on Youth Development
The Vice President further highlighted the importance of youth development as part of the government’s agenda. She referenced programmes such as Adwumawura, which are designed to support young people in transforming their ideas into viable businesses.
She explained that empowering the youth is essential for long term national growth. By providing the necessary tools, training, and support, the government aims to nurture innovation and entrepreneurship among young people. This approach, she said, will help create sustainable employment and reduce reliance on limited formal sector jobs.
Professor Opoku Agyemang noted that youth focused initiatives are being implemented alongside other economic policies to ensure a comprehensive approach to development. The goal is to equip the next generation with the skills and resources needed to contribute meaningfully to the economy.
Infrastructure as a Catalyst for Growth
Infrastructure development was also identified as a key priority in the government’s efforts to drive national progress. The Vice President mentioned strategic projects such as the Kasoa to Winneba road, describing them as critical to regional economic transformation.
She explained that improved road networks facilitate trade, enhance connectivity, and reduce travel time, all of which contribute to economic efficiency. By investing in such projects, the government aims to support business activities and improve access to essential services.
The Vice President emphasised that infrastructure development is closely linked to other sectors, including tourism and commerce. As such, ongoing projects are expected to have a multiplier effect on the economy, benefiting both urban and rural communities.
Unity and Peace as Foundations for Progress
In her address, Professor Opoku Agyemang commended the people of Effutu for maintaining peace and harmony, describing these qualities as essential for development. She noted that a stable and cooperative environment creates the conditions necessary for growth and investment.
She encouraged residents to continue fostering unity and collaboration, particularly as the community works toward achieving its development goals. According to her, collective effort remains a key driver of progress at both the local and national levels.
The Vice President added that festivals like Aboakyer serve as reminders of the importance of togetherness. By bringing people together, such events reinforce shared values and strengthen social cohesion.
Sustaining Growth Through Collaboration
The address concluded with a call for continued collaboration between government, traditional authorities, and local communities. Professor Opoku Agyemang emphasised that sustainable development requires the active participation of all stakeholders.
She expressed confidence that with continued investment and cooperation, Effutu can grow into a major tourism hub while contributing to national development. The government, she assured, remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote economic growth and improve the quality of life for citizens.
As the celebrations continued, the message of development, unity, and cultural pride resonated strongly among participants. The Aboakyer Festival once again provided a platform for reflection on progress and a renewed commitment to building a prosperous future.
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