<<Print>>

Volta Region is establishing an economic partnership with the Delta Region of the United States of America towards the creation of a financial hub to support farmers and players in the Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs).

Under the partnership, farmers from both regions would engage in exchange programmes and idea sharing for mutual benefit, Dr Prince Kofi Kludjeson, President Chair, African Regional Representative of Sister Cities International, said at an Economic Forum on Monday.

The one week forum, organised by the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, and being attended by trade delegations from Arkansas, Delta Region of the USA, is expected to solidify the partnership and exploration of investment opportunities in the two regions.

It is on the theme: “Harnessing our Potentials and Investment Opportunities for Enhanced Development.”

Dr Kludjeson said the focus would be on crop production and marketing, which would ensure value for money.

He said the financial hub would empower young people in the region to establish themselves and expand the local economy for rapid socio-economic growth.

Dr Kludjeson challenged municipal and district assemblies to take advantage of the partnership and move away from over relying on governmental programmes to create commercial enterprises that would engage young people.

He was hopeful the partnership would transform the region saying: “this is the time for Volta Region and we need to pool brain power and get a business caucus.”

Madam Helen Adjoa Ntoso, Volta Regional Minister, said the region was ready to pursue mutual socio-economic partnership and was hopeful it would open new avenues for private sector players.

Mr Mark Martin, Secretary of State, Arkansas, USA, said economic development must be based on trust and iterated the readiness of the Delta Region to partner Volta Region for mutual benefit.

The forum will discuss investment opportunities in agriculture, trade, industry, tourism, communication and health among other things.

It will offer municipal and district assemblies the opportunity to promote agricultural and tourism potentials in their jurisdictions and build strong lasting relationship with investors from Arkansas.