It was a moment of reflection, pride, and renewed commitment to progress as members of the Anlo State gathered to mark the 25th Anniversary of Togbi Agbesi Awusu II, Awadada (Warlord) of Anlo Dukor, at a grand celebration attended by traditional leaders, political figures, and dignitaries in Anloga.
Chairing the ceremony, Mr. Gabriel Kwamigah Tanko Atokple, a member of the Volta Regional Council of State, delivered a stirring address that called for unity and purpose-driven leadership across the 36 states of the Anlo Traditional Area.
He noted that while past generations fought with spears and shields to defend the land, today’s battles must be waged against poverty, disunity, underdevelopment, and the lack of opportunities for the youth.
“Our ancestors fought to protect our land and dignity, but the enemies we face today are poverty, poor infrastructure, and the disunity that weakens our collective voice. If our communities can unite to build churches, we can also unite to build schools, clinics, and enterprises for our people,” he said.
Mr. Atokple urged chiefs, elders, and youth to rise as one Anlo, emphasizing that divided hands cannot lift a heavy load. He called on the Awadada to lead a new era of peace and collaboration among chiefs to end rivalries and promote development.
A Vision for the Next 25 Years
Outlining a vision for the future, the Council of State member said the next 25 years of Awadada’s leadership should be remembered for transforming the Anlo State into a hub of development, education, and industrial growth.
He called for every community to have a vocational training centre, every major town a well-equipped clinic, and every youth access to education and employment opportunities.
“The youth are not a burden — they are our greatest resource. But they need guidance, skills, and opportunities. We must invest in modern agriculture, vocational training, and enterprise development to secure their future,” he added.
Mr. Atokple, who is also a farmer, urged traditional leaders to support government programmes such as Feed Ghana and AgriNext, by making lands available for large-scale agriculture to enhance food security and create jobs.
He further called for closer collaboration between the Anlo Traditional Council, the private sector, and government to attract investments and industrial projects into the Volta Region.
Tribute to Leadership and Legacy
Mr. Atokple praised Togbi Agbesi Awusu II for his 25 years of visionary and disciplined leadership, describing him as a custodian of Anlo’s dignity and a bridge between tradition and modern development.
“Leadership that lasts this long and remains unshaken is a rare gift. Togbi Awadada has upheld the pride of the Anlo people and prepared the way for renewal. History will remember this era for blending strength in tradition with a vision for progress,” he stated.
Among dignitaries present were HRM Togbi Sri III, President of the Anlo Council, H.E. Dan Abodakpui, Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, Hon. Sylvester Mensah, and other distinguished sons and daughters of Anlo land.
Mr. Atokple ended his address with a call to action:
“The Anlo State has no war to fight against other tribes. Our only war is against poverty, underdevelopment, and disunity — and this war, united, we shall win.”
He concluded with a blessing for the Awadada’s reign, urging all Anlos to renew their spirit of unity and service to build a prosperous future for generations to come.
