Technology blogger and researcher, Mac-Jordan Elikem Degadjor, has called for urgent investment in digital and physical infrastructure across the Volta Region to attract startups, investors, and innovation-driven businesses.
Speaking during an X Space discussion on the upcoming 7th Volta Trade and Investment Fair, taking place in Ho from November 26 to December 8, Mr. Degadjor said that without strong connectivity and network systems, the region’s development goals would be difficult to achieve. The 7th edition of the fair is themed “Volta Rising: Building Global Partnerships for a Thriving24-Hour Economy,”
“Without improving on the current infrastructure, I don’t think we can achieve any of the things we are talking about,” he said. “We need to appeal to the telcos to at least strengthen their networks in key areas, especially Ho, Keta, and Aflao.”
Mr. Degadjor, who has been promoting the ‘Visit Volta’ and ‘Experience Volta’ initiatives, noted that digital storytelling remains central to showcasing the region’s culture, talent, and investment opportunities.
“We believe in using some of the digital tools we have to tell the stories of the Volta origin, and this is exactly what we are trying to do now with the Visit Volta Fair,” he said.
He explained that the Volta Region offers affordable conditions for startups and tech hubs, including lower accommodation and office space costs, which make it attractive for innovation. However, he cautioned that these benefits would only materialize if the infrastructure challenges are addressed.
“We believe we have positioned the region such that investors, tech startups, and hubs can move to any of the district capitals and set up operations, but all of this will depend on the kind of infrastructure we have,” he said.
Mr. Degadjor also emphasized the importance of empowering local voices through storytelling to promote the region’s identity and growth.
“We don’t have to wait for anybody to come from Accra to tell our stories,” he said. “We have to tell our own stories, in Ewe, in English, and get the message out there.”
He pointed to existing community-based initiatives such as Ho Connect and Keta Connect, which are helping to link innovators, entrepreneurs, and young people across the region. Yet, he warned that without strong technological foundations, “everything we are doing is literally just pouring water on stone.”
Mr. Degadjor’s remarks come ahead of the Volta Trade and Investment Fair, which seeks to promote regional development, innovation, and business collaboration.
