The First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Member of Parliament (MP) for Akatsi South, Bernard Ahiafor, has called for unity among the chiefs and people of Avenor as a key prerequisite for accelerated development in the area. 

He made the appeal during the 2025 Avenor Tutudo Festival held at Akatsi, Volta Region, where he stressed that communities without peace struggled to make meaningful progress.

Mr Ahiafor noted that development naturally followed peace and harmony, cautioning that conflicts, misunderstandings, and divisions derailed efforts to build stronger communities.

“Where there is peace, there is development,” he said. “My only plea to the chiefs and the people of Avenor is that they should get united. In unity lies strength. Together we stand; divided we fall.”

He assured the gathering that although he stayed away from chieftaincy and land disputes in line with his role as an MP, he remained committed to facilitating reconciliation and unity among stakeholders.

“Even when they need my blood to get together and become one, I am ready to donate it,” he emphasised, adding that he had consistently worked behind the scenes to promote peace in the area.

Mr Ahiafor also outlined several development projects ongoing across the constituency, particularly in electrification, road infrastructure, health, and education.

He stated that all projects he had ever announced were physical and verifiable in the various communities.

“Before Christmas, we shall cut the sod for the commencement of additional projects already approved by the Ministry of Education, GETFund, and regional authorities,” he added.

Togbega Dorglo Anumah further urged government to appoint more capable individuals from the area to strategic national positions, emphasising that Avenor continued to raise its profile through the work of its leaders.

He appealed for the establishment of a clay factory in the area, noting the abundance of clay deposits that could create employment for the youth.

“There is clay in large quantity here. Establishing a factory will enable the youth to get jobs,” he said.

The paramount chief encouraged the youth to pursue meaningful trades, digital skills, and educational opportunities, revealing that plans were ongoing to secure scholarships for brilliant but needy students.

“The future belongs to the youth,” he said. “People may help us, but our ultimate responsibility is to prepare a prosperous future for them.”

The paramount chief reaffirmed Avenor’s readiness to align with the government’s 24-hour Economy initiative to expand job creation and economic opportunities for the people.

The 2025 Avenor Tutudo Festival brought together chiefs, elders, youth groups, and dignitaries, celebrating unity, cultural identity, and the shared vision for a progressive Avenor.