Tafi-Atome Chiefs call for completion of Tourism Authority rehabilitation project

The Regent of the Tafi Traditional Area and Site Manager of the Tafi-Atome Monkey Sanctuary, Francis Acquaye, has appealed to the Volta Regional Minister and the Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) to follow up on the delayed second phase of the GTA rehabilitation project.

Speaking during a visit by the ‘Visit Volta, Volta Fair’ team—led by the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) in collaboration with the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) and GTA Mr. Acquaye said the community had been anticipating the start of the second phase since the successful completion of the first phase in 2020.

He specifically called for updates on the proposed construction of a state-of-the-art hotel facility, which was promised under the second phase of the project.

Additionally, Mr. Acquaye raised concerns about the poor road network connecting key tourist sites to surrounding towns and the damaged bridge over River Dayi linking Tafi-Atome to the major market town of Kpando. 

He stressed that addressing these infrastructure challenges would significantly boost tourism and the local economy.

“The Tafi-Atome Monkey Sanctuary is not just a tourist destination but a symbol of our community’s commitment to conservation and sustainable development. We are proud to showcase our cultural heritage and biodiversity, and we seek support to enhance the visitor experience,” Mr. Acquaye said.

He requested assistance to improve basic infrastructure at the site, including benches and seating facilities for guests, as well as furniture for the manager’s office and reception area.

Mr. Acquaye also brought attention to a community-led project to fence the Tafi-Atome R.C. Primary School compound, aimed at ensuring the safety of pupils and reducing unauthorized access. 

He appealed for support with materials to help complete the project.

“We believe these interventions will not only benefit the community but also enhance the overall tourist experience.   We hope this visit provides a deeper understanding of our needs and opens the door for meaningful collaborations,” he noted.

In response, Volta Regional Minister Mr James Gunu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to developing the region’s tourism sector through strategic and deliberate action.

“We are aware of the road challenges and the poor state of infrastructure leading to key tourist destinations. Fortunately, the Minister for Roads is very passionate about these concerns, and under the President’s ‘Big Push’ initiative, many roads in the Volta Region are set for rehabilitation,” he said.

Mr Gunu assured the chiefs and the community that their requests had been duly noted.  He pledged that, in collaboration with the District Assembly, efforts would be made to furnish the sanctuary’s office, address the bridge issue, and improve infrastructure to make the site more attractive and accessible to tourists.