The chiefs and people of Fodzoku, a community in the North Tongu District of the Volta Region, have voiced their deep dissatisfaction over promises made by the government that have yet to be fulfilled. These unkept commitments relate to the land acquired from the community for the construction of the Kpong Hydroelectric Dam, which spans over 3,100 acres of fertile land.
The Kpong Hydroelectric Dam, a run-of-the-river plant located downstream from the Akosombo Dam, generates nearly 150 megawatts (MW) of electricity, contributing significantly to Ghana’s national power supply. However, the community claims that despite the benefits the dam provides to the country, they have not seen the promised improvements in infrastructure or local opportunities.
During the celebration of the annual Gligbaza festival on December 27, 2025, the acting Paramount Chief and Manklalo of the Fodzoku Traditional Area, Togbe Kwasi Misrobi III, spoke out about the ongoing struggles faced by the community. He listed several issues, including a lack of access to clean drinking water, poor road conditions, and limited employment opportunities with the Volta River Authority (VRA), which operates the dam.
“We were promised houses for the citizens of Fodzoku,” Togbe Misrobi III stated. “We have petitioned the Government and the VRA multiple times, but no action has been taken. We are still waiting for these houses to be built. If this continues, we may be forced to implement Plan 'B'."
The chief also criticized the VRA for failing to provide adequate employment opportunities to local residents, despite sponsoring several young people from Fodzoku to pursue higher education, including Master’s and PhD programs, in fields directly related to the VRA's operations. However, many of these graduates are reportedly unable to find jobs within the organization and are instead forced to seek work in urban centers.
“It would be a source of great pride if our young people could have access to employment opportunities here in Fodzoku,” Togbe Misrobi III added. “Allowing them to return home after their education would help develop our community and contribute to its growth.”
The Manklalo urged the VRA to fulfill its long-standing promises, which include constructing houses, providing sanitation facilities, repairing roads, improving drainage systems, and prioritizing qualified locals for job opportunities.
Despite his frustrations, Togbe Misrobi III acknowledged the positive contributions of the VRA, particularly in the areas of education and community events. He noted that the VRA continues to award scholarships to students from Fodzoku at both the senior high school and tertiary levels and provides financial support for the annual Gligbaza festival.
In response to the concerns, VRA Principal Community Relations Officer, Mrs. Rhoda Arthur, assured the community that the VRA remains committed to the development of Fodzoku. She encouraged the traditional authorities to submit their requests and grievances through the appropriate administrative channels to ensure that they are addressed in a timely manner.
Source: MyNewsGh.com
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