President John Dramani Mahama has visited Fuveme and other coastal communities in the Volta Region affected by recent tidal waves, assuring residents of immediate relief measures and long-term interventions to address the worsening coastal erosion crisis.

The visit follows renewed tidal wave activity that has displaced families, destroyed homes, and left sections of the coastline severely damaged, deepening concerns about the vulnerability of communities along the stretch.

During his tour, President Mahama interacted with affected residents, inspected damaged properties, and reaffirmed government’s commitment to both emergency support and permanent protection works.

“We came here to see for ourselves what is happening after the sea broke through and caused this destruction,” President Mahama said. “This entire coastline is part of an ongoing coastal protection programme, and we are committed to making sure the right interventions are implemented.”

He explained that the area falls under the West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA) project, a $150 million World Bank-supported initiative designed to protect vulnerable coastal communities from sea erosion and tidal wave impacts.

“The WACA project is a major intervention covering this stretch from Ketu South through parts of Anloga,” he noted. “It will involve the construction of sea defence structures and groynes to reduce wave energy, as well as ecological measures like mangrove and coconut planting to help stabilize the shoreline.”

President Mahama acknowledged delays in the implementation process, attributing them in part to the 2024 election period, but assured residents that progress has resumed.

“Yes, there were delays last year because of the elections, but I am happy to report that the feasibility studies have been completed and we are now moving into the design phase,” he stated. “After that, we proceed to procurement and then actual construction.”

He further assured residents that funding for the project remains secure and that government is determined to see it through to completion.

“We want to assure you that the financing for this project is not in doubt,” President Mahama emphasized. “Government is fully committed to ensuring that this coastal protection project is implemented to safeguard lives and property.”

As an immediate response, he disclosed that government will collaborate with the Volta River Authority (VRA) to undertake dredging works at the estuary to help reduce pressure on the coastline.

“In the short term, we are working with VRA to do dredging at the estuary to help ease the tidal impact while we implement the bigger project,” he added.

President Mahama appealed for patience and cooperation from residents as government rolls out both short-term interventions and long-term solutions to address the persistent coastal erosion challenges affecting the Volta Region.

Hon. Joana Gyan Cudjoe, MP for Amenfi Central, has once again demonstrated her strong commitment to community development by fulfilling her promise to the people of Achichire. In support of their efforts to complete a much-needed community center, she donated 300 bags of cement along with 15 packages of roofing sheets today.

The donation was presented on her behalf by Hon. Peter Amponsah, the DCE, for Amenfi Central, together with constituency and branch executives.

This act goes beyond a simple donation, it reflects a deep dedication to improving lives and creating spaces where communities can come together, grow, and thrive. When completed, the Achichire Community Center will serve as a vital hub for social activities, meetings, and local initiatives, helping to strengthen unity and drive development in the area.

Hon. Gyan Cudjoe’s timely support has injected new energy and hope into the project, and the people of Achichire have expressed heartfelt appreciation for her continued leadership and commitment to their welfare.

Ghana is preparing to host more than 500 delegates from across West Africa and the global diaspora as Accra welcomes the 12th District 94 Conference of Toastmasters International. The four-day event, themed Lead With Purpose, Speak to Impact, is scheduled to run from April 29 to May 2, 2026.

The conference will officially open at Destiny Arena, with additional sessions and activities taking place at selected venues across the capital. Delegates are expected from over 12 West African countries, alongside participants from Central Africa, Europe, and the wider diaspora. Countries represented include Côte d’Ivoire, Cape Verde, The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo, and host nation Ghana.

Positioned as a major platform for leadership and communication development, the conference will address key global and regional issues such as the rise of artificial intelligence, cultural transformation, and evolving geopolitical trends. The programme features keynote speeches, leadership masterclasses, panel discussions, speech contests, and networking sessions aimed at strengthening participants’ public speaking and leadership skills.

District 94 Director, Fatou Sakho, described the event as more than a traditional conference, highlighting its role as a meeting point for culture, innovation, and purpose. She noted that Accra 2026 represents an opportunity for Africa to demonstrate its leadership voice on a global stage.

Conference Chair, Suzy Aku Puplampu, emphasized the significance of Ghana hosting the event for the second time in seven years, following the 2018 edition. According to her, the conference reflects the growing influence of Toastmasters across the West African region.

Programme Quality Director, Ibrahim Sory Keita, added that participants will experience more than professional development, with organisers planning to showcase Ghana’s renowned hospitality through curated cultural and social activities.

Veteran Ghanaian Toastmaster, Papa Arkhurst, noted that the conference presents a unique opportunity to highlight Africa’s leadership potential, the Toastmasters tradition of developing communicators, and Ghana’s welcoming “Akwaaba” spirit.

The event will conclude with the International Speech Contest and International Evaluation Speech Contest, where top speakers from across the region will compete for top honours. Additional highlights include tourism experiences, networking events, and a Hall of Fame Recognition Ceremony and Gala Night celebrating excellence in leadership and public speaking.

The conference will also feature contributions from prominent figures in business and law, including Alhassan Andani, David Dorte, Julian Opuni, and Kwamina Asomaning.

As anticipation builds, the Accra 2026 Toastmasters Conference is expected to stand out as one of the continent’s leading leadership gatherings, bringing together emerging and established voices to exchange ideas, build networks, and inspire meaningful change.