The Taviefe Traditional Council has held its maiden general meeting, using the occasion to make a passionate appeal for unity among chiefs, elders, and the youth as a critical step toward accelerating development in the community.

The meeting brought together key stakeholders to reflect on longstanding disputes and chart a new path focused on progress and collective responsibility.

Togbe Anku Tsikata II, Afetorfia of Taviefe Avenya, said the council had made modest but significant progress, stressing that the remaining effort would require strategic collaboration and faith.

He noted that unity among the various clans was essential to “set the flame for Taviefe to flourish,” urging leaders to engage their counterparts across divides to build a common front for development.

Togbe Anku Tsikata II cautioned the youth against being drawn into chieftaincy and dispute-related matters, emphasising that such issues were best handled by traditional authorities. He urged the youth to instead focus on development-oriented concerns, asking what legacy they intended to leave for themselves and future generations.

He highlighted intermarriages and family ties across clans as a foundation upon which lasting unity could be built.

Meanwhile, water supply emerged as a major concern at the meeting.

The council lamented frequent breakdowns of the community’s mechanised borehole and appealed to authorities to extend the Kpeve national water supply system already serving Ziavi to Taviefe, a distance of about three to four kilometres. They stressed that access to reliable and potable water was vital for health, investment, and overall community well-being.

Health and education challenges were also discussed extensively. Although Taviefe has a clinic, the absence of accommodation for nurses and medical staff makes it difficult to access healthcare at night. Togbe Kofi Dzokporse VIII, Dutorfia of Taviefe, appealed for the construction of a bungalow to improve staff presence and emergency response.

In education, while the senior high school infrastructure has improved benefiting from government support including fencing, basic schools face challenges such as the lack of computers for existing ICT labs, a poorly sited kindergarten, and a dilapidated headteacher’s bungalow requiring urgent refurbishment.

On her part, Mama Serwa Fenu III, Dutor-Nyornufia of Taviefe, observed that persistent disputes have discouraged investors and members of the Taviefe diaspora, many of whom are uncertain about where to align when they return home.

Mama Serwa Fenu III, said unity would not only restore confidence but also attract investors whose presence could create jobs for the youth and stimulate local development.

She added that there are ongoing engagements with leaders from the other faction aimed at reconciliation. She stressed that Taviefe was bigger than any individual and called on all stakeholders to set aside differences, embrace peace, and work together for the future of the community.

The council reiterated its commitment to mediation, peace building, and development-driven leadership.