By Michael Foli Jackidy
Ave-Dakpa (V/R), Feb. 05, GNA – Mr James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, has led a working visit to the Ave Crocodile Resort in the Akatsi North District to assess the facility’s readiness for reopening, nearly three years after its closure in 2022.
The resort was shut down following a safety incident involving a tourist who attempted to improperly interact with one of the crocodiles, prompting concerns about visitor safety and the need for stricter management protocols.
Mr Gunu was accompanied by Madam Roberta Okine-Fumador, the Acting Volta Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA).
The delegation was received by Torgbui Nyamekor-Glakpe V, the Paramount Chief of the Ave Dakpa Traditional Area, other traditional leaders, Mr Bless Katamani, the District Chief Executive for Akatsi North, Assembly Members, and residents of Ave Dakpa.
Addressing stakeholders, the Regional Minister underscored the economic importance of reviving the resort, describing it as a potential catalyst for local economic growth, job creation, and tourism development.
He said reopening the facility would help improve livelihoods and reposition Ave Dakpa as a notable tourism destination within the Volta Region.
Mr Gunu recalled that he played a key role in establishing the Ave Crocodile Resort during his tenure as District Chief Executive for Akatsi North, a commitment that earned him the nickname “Friendly Crocodile.”
He explained that the idea was born after a chance encounter with a crocodile on his way to work, which inspired efforts to transform the area into a tourism attraction.
As part of the initial development, staff were sent to Hans Cottage in Cape Coast to understudy crocodile management before the site was officially opened.
To enhance the visitor experience, Mr Gunu proposed the introduction of recreational and entertainment facilities, comprehensive storytelling on the area’s history, and the training of professional tour guides.
He noted that the dam at the site was constructed in 1963 and said its historical significance should form part of the resort’s educational offering.
He also highlighted the presence of several male and female crocodiles at the resort, including a distinctive female regarded by locals as the “mother,” known for a pot-like feature on her head.
Madam Okine-Fumador emphasised the need for strict safety and conservation measures ahead of any reopening.
She called for the engagement of trained wildlife personnel to study and identify the crocodile species, strengthen handling protocols, and improve visitor education to prevent future incidents.
As part of the visit, a traditional crocodile caller, Torgbui Afudzishie Egbor, performed a customary ritual to summon the reptiles, which emerged from the pond one after the other to receive their chicken feed, creating a striking moment for the delegation and onlookers.
The assessment visit was aimed at evaluating the facility’s current condition and identifying the necessary safety, management, and infrastructure improvements required to reopen the Ave Crocodile Resort in line with national tourism standards and best practices.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/ Christabel Addo