The Minister for Labour, Jobs and Employment, Hon. Dr. Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, on Saturday led a high-powered government delegation to the 2025 Avenor Tutudoza Grand Durbar, delivering a strong call for skills development, youth empowerment, and community-driven economic growth. The colourful ceremony, held at the Akatsi Main Lorry Park, attracted thousands from across the Avenor Traditional Area.
Dr. Pelpuo represented the President as Special Guest of Honour and was joined by the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and MP for Akatsi South, Rt. Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, as well as the Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu. Their presence demonstrated government’s commitment to strengthening job creation, human capital development, and local enterprise productivity in the region.
Skills and Jobs Highlighted as the Future of Avenor
The Minister praised this year’s festival theme “Securing the Future of Avenor through Skills Acquisition, Employment and Economic Growth” describing it as perfectly aligned with government’s national development priorities. He emphasized that sustainable economic progress depends on equipping the youth with practical, employable skills for both local and global industries.
Dr. Pelpuo highlighted ongoing government investments in TVET and apprenticeship programmes, the upgrading of technical institutions, and enhanced support for master craftsmen. He encouraged young people to explore training opportunities in fashion design, agribusiness, welding, mechanical work, digital design, carpentry and other vocational fields that are increasingly in demand.
Avenor Positioned for Economic Transformation
Reflecting on the resilience and creativity of the Avenor people, the Minister said the area has strong potential for economic transformation. He pointed to agro-processing including cassava processing, gari production, maize milling, and rice packaging, as key job drivers that can bolster local enterprise and export potential.
He also proposed the establishment of community-based skills centres that focus on garment production, metal fabrication, digital freelancing, and creative arts. Such centres, he said, could position Avenor as a rising hub for modern craftsmanship and innovation.
Tourism and Green Jobs Offer New Prospects
Touching on cultural tourism, Dr. Pelpuo emphasised that the Tutudoza Festival’s rich heritage presents opportunities for economic diversification. With relevant skills in photography, videography, craft-making and cultural merchandising, he said, many young people can build sustainable livelihoods.
He further highlighted emerging opportunities within the green economy from solar installation to recycling and environmental management, noting that government is expanding training and job placements in these sectors. He encouraged the youth to register with the appropriate agencies to take advantage of jobs tied to ongoing infrastructure projects across the Volta Region.
Government Reaffirms Support for Avenor Development
Other members of the government delegation, including Rt. Hon. Ahiafor and Hon. Gunu, shared messages of unity, peace and development. Their participation reinforced government’s commitment to the socio-economic progress of the Avenor Traditional Area.
Festival Closes with Renewed Hope
The grand durbar, presided over by His Royal Majesty Togbega Dorglo Anumah VI and the Avenor Traditional Council, featured vibrant cultural performances, traditional rites and renewed calls for community development. Dr. Pelpuo expressed deep appreciation for the warm hospitality and said he remains optimistic that the festival will inspire a renewed drive for dignity, creativity and economic advancement.
The 2025 Tutudoza Grand Durbar concluded with a reaffirmed national commitment to empowering the youth, expanding job opportunities and promoting inclusive development across Avenor and the wider Volta Region.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Kwabena Nyarko Abronoma
