GUANGZHOU/FOSHAN, China — A delegation of traditional rulers from Ghana’s Volta Region has expressed admiration for China’s rapid transformation, describing its development, security systems and technological infrastructure as important lessons for Ghana and the region.
The chiefs are currently in China as part of an investment and business tour of Guangdong Province, where they have visited industrial facilities, factories, smart-city projects and other major development sites.
Led by the President of the Volta Regional House of Chiefs, Togbe Tepre Hodo IV of Anfoega, the delegation said the experience had provided them with a practical understanding of the systems and investments underpinning China’s economic growth.
The traditional leaders said their observations in Guangzhou, Foshan and Shenzhen demonstrated the impact that long-term planning, industrialisation, technological advancement and disciplined implementation could have on national development.
They were particularly impressed by China’s infrastructure, security arrangements, urban planning and extensive use of technology in both public and private-sector operations.
According to the delegation, the availability of reliable electricity, modern transport networks and advanced Information Technology systems has created an environment capable of supporting businesses and sustaining industrial production.
The chiefs also highlighted what they described as the high level of public order and security they encountered during their movements and visits, saying these were important components of an investment-friendly environment.
The delegation comprises several prominent traditional leaders, including Togbega Gabusu VII of Hohoe, Togbe Atikpladza Agbi Yao VIII of Kpalime, Togbega Sei II of Botoku, Togbui Dagadu IX of Kpando, Torgbui Tenge Dzokoto Gligui VII of Anyako, and Torgbiga Adamah III of Some.
The traditional rulers said their engagements had gone beyond sightseeing, providing them with opportunities to observe industrial operations and explore areas where partnerships and investments could potentially benefit communities in the Volta Region.
They identified industrialisation, technology transfer, infrastructure development and modern security management as some of the areas in which Ghana could draw useful lessons from China’s experience.
The chiefs further expressed the view that development initiatives must be supported by effective systems, skilled human resources and sustained investment if communities are to achieve meaningful economic transformation.
They also praised Chinese President Xi Jinping for the leadership under which, in their assessment, China has recorded significant economic and infrastructural transformation over the years.
The traditional leaders said their observations had strengthened their interest in exploring practical partnerships that could contribute to economic opportunities, job creation and industrial development in the Volta Region.
The delegation also commended Ghana’s Ambassador to China, H.E. Kojo Bonsu, for facilitating the visit and creating an opportunity for the chiefs to gain first-hand exposure to China’s industrial and technological landscape.
Special appreciation was also extended to Consul-General Mr Sidney Kwesi Ellis and businessman Mr Peter Ahiekpor, who assisted with the organisation and coordination of the delegation’s engagements and business tours.
The chiefs said the factory visits, high-speed rail experiences and tours of industrial and smart-city facilities had broadened their understanding of China’s development model and provided ideas that could be examined for possible application in Ghana.
They expressed optimism that the lessons gathered during the tour, together with the Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) reportedly signed during the visit, would provide a foundation for future investment cooperation and support the Volta Region’s industrialisation ambitions.
