Tafi abuife: Togbe Kasu IV, the Chief of Tafi Abuife in the Afadzato South District of the Volta Region, has urged the government to invest in the community's tourism infrastructure. He emphasized the need to transform the local Kente weaving centre into a modern 24-hour facility to boost economic and cultural tourism.
According to Ghana Web, Togbe Kasu IV made this call during the 2026 Kente-Keporte Festival. The event, themed 'Kente Beyond Culture: A Tool for Economic Transformation,' underscored the potential of Tafi Abuife as a major cultural tourism destination. The Chief proposed the development of a visitor centre, accommodation, and digital promotion facilities to enhance the tourist experience.
Togbe Kasu IV highlighted the importance of encouraging tourists to engage with the Kente weaving process, learn its history, and enjoy local hospitality. He appealed to government officials, including the District Chief Executive Hon. Manfred Tawiah and Member of Parliament Hon. Frank Afriyie, to invest in transforming the weaving centre and improving local infrastructure, particularly the road network.
He stressed that improved roads would facilitate access to the area, boosting economic opportunities and attracting tourists. Togbe Kasu envisioned a future where the Tafi Abuife Kente Experience becomes a must-visit attraction for tourists in Ghana, significantly benefiting the local economy and the Afadzato South District Assembly.
The Chief argued that Kente should be recognized as an economic asset, capable of creating jobs, promoting exports, and driving tourism. He noted that the craft embodies the history and identity of the community, with each design telling a story. He emphasized the need to turn this cultural heritage into sustainable economic opportunities, particularly for youth and women.
Togbe Kasu IV called for collaborations among traditional authorities, government agencies, educational institutions, and private businesses to train young people in modern weaving techniques and business management. He advocated for digital marketing, affordable financing, and innovation in Kente design to access global markets.
He encouraged the Kente industry to embrace digital tools to expand its reach globally. Togbe Kasu urged the community's youth to become digital ambassadors for Tafi Abuife Kente, leveraging the ongoing ICT project to achieve this goal.
The Chief also highlighted the importance of investing in women involved in the Kente value chain, as this would enhance local economic development. He called on financial institutions and investors to view the Kente industry as a viable economic sector deserving of strategic investment.
While urging government support, Togbe Kasu IV also emphasized the role of traditional leaders and the community in fostering an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship. He stressed that the economic benefits from Kente should contribute significantly to Tafi Abuife's development.
In conclusion, Togbe Kasu IV advocated for the establishment of a Kente economy that creates jobs, empowers women, supports artisans, attracts tourists, and promotes Ghana internationally. He envisioned Tafi Abuife as a hub of innovation, fashion, tourism, and cultural enterprise, urging the community to transition from cultural pride to economic prosperity.