The Volta River Authority (VRA) has reiterated its strong commitment to the sustainable development of communities within its operational areas, pledging continued support through targeted initiatives in education, health, environmental stewardship, and socio-economic empowerment.
In a statement reflecting on its 64-year journey, the Authority highlighted its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Community Development Programme (CDP) framework, which guides interventions across multiple sectors.
Education and Youth Empowerment
Since 2011, VRA’s education support initiatives have benefitted 449 students—234 at the Senior High School level (pre-Free SHS) and 215 at the tertiary level—under its CDP scholarship programme. The Authority’s Employee Volunteer Programme (EVP) also deploys VRA staff to provide career guidance, counselling, and teaching in public senior high schools at no cost.
The Authority has also supported schools with teaching and learning materials, infrastructure development, and educational donations to enhance academic outcomes in host communities.
Socio-Economic Empowerment
To support income generation and poverty reduction, VRA continues to implement alternative livelihood initiatives such as beekeeping and fruit tree cultivation. These programmes are designed to empower residents of riparian communities economically and promote self-sufficiency.
Health and Sanitation Interventions
Aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 6, VRA has provided solar mechanized boreholes, water systems, and biofil sanitation facilities across several districts. These investments also support its ongoing Schistosomiasis (Bilharzia) control programme by improving access to clean water and hygienic sanitation.
Environmental Stewardship
The Authority reaffirmed its role in protecting the environment through reforestation, watershed and aquatic weed management, and pollution control efforts, particularly in the Volta Gorge and surrounding areas.
VRA also supports cultural initiatives that preserve oral history and uphold traditional customs in the communities where it operates.
Impact in the Akuse Area and Beyond
In Akuse, VRA’s impact includes scholarship awards, educational material donations, and road improvement works such as upgrades from Okwenya Junction to the Akuse VRA Junction to ease mobility and accessibility.
In collaboration with internal staff groups such as the VRA Ladies Association (VRALA) and the Association of VRA Technician Engineers (AVRATE), the Authority has extended support to orphanages, refurbished the Natriku D/A Primary School, and provided accommodation for Akuse Hospital staff.
While acknowledging that road infrastructure falls under the purview of local government, VRA noted that it has supported community access and mobility projects where feasible and financially viable.
Continued Engagement and Partnership
Looking ahead, the VRA reaffirmed its readiness to work closely with traditional leaders, local governments, and community stakeholders to identify and respond to critical needs within the scope of its mandate and available resources.
“The Volta River Authority is and remains committed to adding value to lives in all operational areas, including Akuse, Akosombo, Tema, Kpone, Aboadze, and Anwomaso,” the statement said. “We are open to constructive dialogue, meaningful partnerships, and sustainable, inclusive development.”