The Volta Trade and Investment Fair 2025 is generating excitement with a regional tour designed to spotlight the tourism sites and investment opportunities abundant within the Volta Region. This initiative, spearheaded by the Association of Ghana Industries, the Ghana Tourism Authority, and the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, aims to build anticipation for the upcoming fair and demonstrate the untapped potential of the region’s tourism sector. Integral to the ‘Visit Volta’ initiative, the tour seeks to elevate the Volta Region’s profile on a global scale. As the tour unfolds, the question on many minds is: what hidden gems and promising ventures await discovery in Volta? The initial stops provide a glimpse into the region’s unique attractions and investment possibilities.

The journey began at the Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary in the Afadzato South District, a sanctuary spanning approximately 360 acres. It serves as a protected habitat for over 900 Mona monkeys, creatures that are revered as deities by the local community.

This reverence fosters a deep commitment to the monkeys’ protection and the preservation of their forest home. Robert Dzandzu, the Senior Tour Guide, elucidates the monkeys’ social dynamics: “[They] move in troops, taking rounds in the forest in search of food, led by a male adult. Members of the troops are under the command of the leader and owe allegiance to him.” Dzandzu further explains the leader’s role, noting, “The male, who is the leader, has to eat and approve of the safety of the bananas we came along with before other members of the troop can take them.” Conservation efforts are evident throughout the sanctuary, including a fire belt established to prevent forest fires, and strict prohibitions against cutting trees or farming within the forest area.

The tour then moved to Amedzofe, located in the Ho West District. This is known as the highest human settlement in Ghana. Amedzofe boasts attractions such as Ote Falls, Mount Gemi, its distinctive misty weather, an eco-park, ancient caves, and a canopy walkway.

Mount Gemi, which stands at approximately 760 meters, offers visitors panoramic views that extend far beyond the Volta River. Robert Ame, the Assembly member for the Amedzorfe Electoral Area, emphasizes the mountain’s historical significance: “This mountain was where the Ewes and the Ashantis fought their final war in 1868, where the Ewes defeated the Ashantis; it was in the valleys of this mountain.” Adding to its historical allure, Ame notes, “When you climb this mountain, you see a cross, and that cross was erected in 1939 by the German missionaries, who came here to preach the word of God. When they were celebrating their 60th anniversary in 1939, they erected that cross.” Amedzofe’s unique misty climate and its historical role as the location of the first German Christian missionaries in the Volta Region, enhance its appeal as a destination for international tourists.

The tour culminated with a visit to the Canopy Walkway, where the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, experienced its breathtaking views. Suspended on three top walkways divided into two sections, approximately 25 meters above the forest floor, it provided a memorable experience.

Mr. Gunu shared his impressions: “This is a nice experience; it is very good for our health. It is not just a tourist attraction; it is more than that. I will urge everybody to come experience nature.” He extended an invitation to global tourism enthusiasts, promising a unique ecotourism experience combined with investment opportunities. The government plans to develop over 120 identified tourist sites through multi-sectoral collaboration. Johnny Arthur Qwam, the Volta Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority, found the experience “outstanding” and encouraged everyone to try it. Qwam noted, “When you come around here, your oxygen level goes up to 99%. Come and have a try and see. Descending the 259 steps down, walking on the canopy, then ascending the steps. It is a great feeling.”

Investor Ayush Jindal expressed enthusiasm for the tourism and agriculture sectors in the Volta Region. He encouraged his colleagues to “embark on a tour in the countryside and identify the enormous potential of the Volta Region”. The tour, organized in four phases, aims to gather “first-hand information” to promote the tourism sector and build anticipation for the Volta Trade and Investment Fair 2025.

The regional tour has effectively showcased the Volta Region’s diverse tourism offerings. These offerings range from the sacred Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary to the heights of Amedzofe and the thrilling Canopy Walkway. With endorsements from government officials and investors, the Volta Region is poised to attract significant interest and investment. The ‘Visit Volta’ initiative promises an ecotourism experience, blending natural beauty with investment opportunities. As the Volta Trade Fair 2025 approaches, stakeholders are optimistic about the region’s prospects for socioeconomic growth and global recognition.