Poor roads choking eco-tourism potential – Avatime Paramount Chief cries out

The Paramount Chief of Avatime, Osie Adza Tekpor VII, has expressed deep concern over the poor condition of roads in the Avatime Traditional Area, which he believes is hampering eco-tourism and economic growth. Speaking at the 2026 Avatime Amu Festival in Accra, the chief highlighted the need for urgent road rehabilitation, particularly for the routes connecting Avatime Amedzofe, Avatime Gbadzeme, Avatime Dzogbefeme, and Avatime Dzokpe.

He emphasized that the deteriorating roads are obstructing access for residents and tourists, thereby inhibiting the area's potential to attract eco-tourism. The Avatime region boasts significant attractions such as Mount Gemi, its stunning waterfalls, a canopy walkway, hilly terrain suitable for paragliding, and a cold mountain climate that draws both local and international visitors.

However, the chief lamented that these attractions remain underutilized due to the lack of proper infrastructure. Despite numerous promises from successive governments over the past two decades, the chief noted that no substantial action has been taken to address the road issues. This negligence has left local farmers struggling to transport their produce and discouraged tourists from visiting.

Speaking at the festival, which honored the late Pharmacist Harrison Kofi Abutiate, the chief called on Ghanaian business leaders and corporate entities to invest in Avatime's agriculture, agribusiness, skills training, manufacturing, and banking sectors.