By Frank Kwame Abbor, GNA
Ho, Nov. 15, GNA – Togbe Kpangbatriku IV, Paramount Chief of the Dodome Traditional Council, has called on citizens of the area to strengthen unity, mobilise local resources and work together to accelerate community development.
He said development required collective commitment, stressing that every son and daughter of Dodome had a responsibility to contribute to the progress of the traditional area.
Togbe Kpangbatriku made the call at the third edition of the annual Agadzizã, held under the theme: “Building Stronger Communities Through Resource Mobilisation and Cooperation.”
He described the festival as a celebration of memory, identity, gratitude and unity, saying it provided an opportunity for the people to honour their forebears, preserve their cultural heritage and reflect on their shared history.
He said the Dodome Traditional Area comprised six communities – Avexa, Tsikor, Teleafewu, Doglome, Awiasu and Awlime – and urged residents to avoid allowing differences among communities, clans and individuals to undermine their common development aspirations.
“When Tsikor progresses, Dodome progresses. When Teleafewu develops, Dodome develops. When Doglome advances, Dodome advances. When Awlime moves forward, Dodome moves forward,” he said, emphasising that the collective wellbeing of the area must become the concern of all.
The Paramount Chief said the people’s greatest resource was their human capital, including professionals, farmers, businesspeople, artisans, religious leaders and young people, as well as citizens living outside the traditional area and abroad.
He therefore encouraged the Traditional Council, the six communities, development associations and the diaspora to consider establishing a community development fund or framework to identify priority projects and encourage regular contributions in cash, materials, expertise and voluntary service.
Togbe Kpangbatriku IV, however, stressed the need for transparency and accountability in managing such contributions, noting that proper records and clear reporting on the use of funds would build public confidence and encourage sustained support for development initiatives.
He also urged traditional leaders and the older generation to involve young people in decision-making, mentor them and give them responsibilities, while encouraging the youth to acquire practical skills, establish businesses, explore agriculture and participate actively in community affairs.
He called for greater opportunities for women to access skills training, capital, markets and leadership positions, saying their empowerment would strengthen families and the wider community.
The Paramount Chief further urged the people to use their cultural heritage as an asset for development and sustain partnerships that promoted technical and vocational education and training for young people.
Dr Apostle Cephas Quarshie, Chairman and President of CBS Group of Companies, who chaired the occasion, pledged his support for the development of Dodome, particularly in resource mobilisation and community advancement.
He said the development of the traditional area was a priority to him and assured the gathering that he and his company are committed to supporting initiatives that would improve the lives of the people.
Dr Quarshie expressed optimism that the festival would provide an opportunity for stakeholders to unite behind practical development initiatives
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Kenneth Odeng Adade