The Volta Region has been identified as a strategic growth corridor in Ghana’s ambitious 24-Hour Economy agenda, with policymakers, investors, and development partners describing it as the next frontier for industrial transformation, trade, and inclusive development.
This was highlighted at the maiden Volta Economic Forum, held under the theme: “Harnessing the Volta Economic Corridor’s Potentials for the 24-Hour Economy Policy Take-Off.” The event brought together key stakeholders from government, the private sector, and development institutions to deliberate on how the Volta Corridor could serve as a launchpad for Ghana’s continuous productivity model.
Volta: The Corridor of Possibility
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor, Commissioner of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), described the Volta Region as a “Corridor of Possibility”, a vital geographic and economic link connecting Ghana to the ECOWAS sub-region.
He said the Volta Corridor’s combination of logistics networks, resource endowments, and industrial potential makes it a cornerstone for the 24-hour economy take-off.
“The Volta Corridor represents a new frontier where trade, logistics, agro-processing, manufacturing, and tourism can operate seamlessly around the clock to power Ghana’s economic transformation,” DDrApetorgbor emphasised.
With its access to the Eastern Corridor road, Lake Volta transport system, and the Aflao border, the region offers unmatched opportunities for cross-border trade and industrial diversification.
Five Pillars of Continuous Economic Activity
Dr Apetorgbor outlined five key investment pillars identified as engines of continuous growth and job creation:
Agro-Processing and Food Systems – Targeting Adaklu, Central Tongu, Akatsi North and South, and Ketu North for round-the-clock processing, warehousing, and logistics. (Investment range: GHS12–35 million)
Blue Economy and Coastal Value Addition – Leveraging Anloga, Keta, and Ketu South’s fisheries, salt, and aquaculture for 24-hour production and export operations. (Investment range: GHS15–38 million)
Tourism and Cultural Economy – Developing Afadzato South, Hohoe, and Kpando as eco-tourism and hospitality enclaves with active day-and-night attractions. (Investment range: GHS22–40 million)
Light Manufacturing, ICT/BPO, and Urban Services – Positioning Ho as a hub for ICT outsourcing, assembly plants, and light industries. (Investment range: GHS40–65 million)
Logistics, Warehousing, and Border Trade – Building bonded warehouses, dry ports, and distribution centres across Ketu South and North Tongu. (Investment range: GHS25–95 million)
“These are not abstract ideas but bankable, data-backed projects with strong local participation and tangible off-take potential,” Dr Apetorgbor noted.
Exim Bank Backs Volta’s Industrial Vision
The Ghana Export-Import Bank (Ghana Exim Bank), the main sponsor of the forum, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting viable ventures within the Volta Corridor.
In a presentation, the Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Exim Bank outlined how the bank’s financing instruments are tailored to promote exports, agro-industrial growth, and manufacturing competitiveness across the region.
“Ghana Exim Bank remains committed to driving Ghana’s 24-hour economy through targeted financing, capacity building, and partnership with the private sector. The Volta Corridor offers the perfect blend of opportunity and readiness,” the CEO emphasised
He also highlighted a range of credit facilities and project financing options available to businesses seeking to invest in processing, logistics, and value-added exports from the region.
Creating an Enabling Environment for Investors
A One-Stop Investor Desk has been established through collaboration between the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC), Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), and relevant ministries to facilitate investor engagement.
The desk will fast-track permits, land validation, and access to utilities — removing bureaucratic bottlenecks and ensuring a smooth investor experience.
Additionally, Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and blended finance mechanisms will support key investments in agro-processing, logistics, and tourism, underpinned by climate adaptation and environmental safeguards.
Partnerships for Shared Prosperity
The forum also underscored the importance of collaboration among the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), and development partners.
Dr Apetorgbor further revealed that linkages between the Oti and Volta Regions form a complete value chain — with production in Oti, processing and logistics in Volta, and distribution across Ghana and the ECOWAS market.
A 24-Hour Economy That Works for All
Beyond infrastructure and investment, the 24-hour economy vision seeks to promote inclusive, gender-responsive, and environmentally sustainable growth.
The initiative integrates local community participation, youth skills training, and equitable procurement systems to ensure that economic expansion directly improves livelihoods.
“We are building not just an economy that never sleeps, but one that gives every Ghanaian the chance to participate and prosper,” DDrApetorgbor stressed.
The Volta Corridor Investment Pledge
The forum concluded with a strong call to action: “The Volta Corridor is open for business.”
Investors were encouraged to:
Co-create: Partner with local authorities to develop viable projects.
Commit: Invest through equity participation, joint ventures, or long-term off-take agreements.
Champion: Take the lead in driving implementation within the next 90 days.
With its rich natural endowments, strategic location, and coordinated institutional support, the Volta Region stands ready to power Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy take-off.
Backed by Ghana Exim Bank and national agencies, the Volta Economic Corridor presents an unprecedented opportunity for investors, entrepreneurs, and communities to build an economy that never sleeps — one that continuously creates jobs, drives exports, and sustains national prosperity.
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