The Volta Regional Minister, Dr Archibald Yao Letsa, has underscored the pivotal role of industrialisation in propelling the region and its citizens out of the poverty cycle. 

Speaking at the launch of the 6th Volta Trade and Investment Fair 2023 on Wednesday, 16 August 2023, Dr Letsa emphasised the region's imperative to embrace industrialisation for the betterment of its people and the global community at large.

The theme for the event: 'Leveraging the African Continental Free Trade for Local Economic Development', resonated with Dr Letsa's vision of industrial growth as a catalyst for progress. 

"Our region cannot advance and escape the grip of poverty without a concerted effort toward industrialisation. Investing in industries is not just a boost to the private sector, but a crucial step toward local economic development," he asserted.

Acknowledging government's role in creating an enabling environment for private sector growth, Dr Letsa emphasised that true progress could only arise when people seized the opportunities offered by this environment.

He noted that industrial advancement is most effective within competitive economies, emphasising that the Volta Region should aim to be a productive and exporting hub.

"Our vision is to make our region a production and exporting centre. This vision necessitates a robust trade and industrial drive," Dr Letsa declared.

The 2023 Volta Trade and Investment Fair, scheduled from Sunday, 26 November to Sunday, 10 December at the Ho Sports Stadium, is poised to showcase the Volta Region's locally made products while also promoting collaboration between regional stakeholders and the private sector. 

The event aims to highlight the potential and opportunities present within the region, fostering partnerships and synergies to propel economic growth.

Chairman of the Association of Ghana Industries, Eastern, Volta/Oti chapter, Dela Gadzanku, commended the collaborative efforts behind the fair, involving AGI, the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, GTA, and other valued partners. 

He emphasised the fair's broader impact on communities and industries, measured not solely by deals struck but by the lasting effects on development.

This year's fair promises an array of activities, including the 2nd Volta Youth Summit, Maiden Volta Women Entrepreneurs Summit, Sports Investment Summit/Sports Heroes Award, Creative Arts Summit, AFCTA Youth Innovation Contest, and cultural nights celebrating the participating countries' cultures. An AFCTA Village will be set up to host exhibitors from various African nations.

With over 400 indigenous exhibitors and foreign companies expected to participate, including representatives from India, Kenya, Togo, and Nigeria, the 6th Volta Trade and Investment Fair aims to draw over 4,000 visitors encompassing investors, business communities, diplomats, contractors, and professionals from the building industry.