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0 The Volta River Authority (VRA) has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to the sustainable development of communities within its operational zones, emphasising its role as a responsible corporate institution.
For over six decades, the Authority has implemented a wide range of community development initiatives guided by a robust Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Policy and Community Development Programme (CDP) framework.
These interventions span across Education, Health, Socio-economic Empowerment, Sanitation, and Environmental Protection.
The VRA’s CSR strategy is anchored on four strategic pillars:
Education, Socio-economic Empowerment, Health and Sanitation, and Environmental Stewardship.
Education
Since 2011, a total of 449 students have benefited from VRA’s CDP Educational Scholarships—234 at the Senior High School level (pre-Free SHS) and 215 at the tertiary level.
To further promote academic excellence, the Authority runs an Employee Volunteer Programme (EVP), where staff offer free career guidance, counselling, and teaching support to Senior High Schools in host communities. VRA also donates educational materials and supports the construction of learning infrastructure.
Socio-economic Empowerment
VRA supports income-generating ventures such as beekeeping and fruit-tree cultivation, while also training community members in alternative livelihoods to enhance economic resilience in riparian areas.
Health and Sanitation
In line with UN SDG 6, VRA has installed several solar-mechanised boreholes, water systems, and Biofil sanitation facilities in various districts. These facilities promote public health and are part of VRA’s Schistosomiasis (Bilharzia) Control Programme.
Environmental Stewardship
The Authority continues to champion environmental protection through reforestation, watershed management, aquatic weed control, and pollution prevention, particularly in the Volta Gorge and downstream areas.
VRA also supports cultural events that preserve oral traditions and local customs in impacted communities.
In the Akuse area, interventions have included scholarships for brilliant but needy students, the donation of learning materials, and support for traditional festivals.
The Authority has also rehabilitated roads, such as the stretch from Okwenya Junction to Akuse VRA Junction, to improve local mobility.
Through partnerships with staff groups like VRA Ladies (VRALA) and AVRATE, the Authority has supported orphanages, refurbished school blocks like Natriku D/A Primary, and provided housing for healthcare staff at Akuse Hospital.
Though roads and other infrastructure fall under the purview of local government, VRA collaborates with stakeholders to support access initiatives wherever possible.
VRA’s commitment spans Akuse, Akosombo, Tema, Kpone, Aboadze, Anwomaso, and other operational areas.
The Authority remains committed to constructive dialogue, partnerships, and supporting critical community needs within the scope of its mandate and available resources.
