One of Ghana’s most influential traditional leaders has thrown his weight behind the government’s latest anti-corruption drive — but says it must go further if the country is serious about meaningful change.
Speaking at a sod-cutting ceremony on Tuesday for a major road redevelopment project in Ho, Togbe Afede XIV, the Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, praised the recently launched Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) initiative as a step in the right direction. Still, he warned that corruption remains “one of the greatest threats to Ghana’s development.”
“The government needs to be fighting corruption head-on,” Togbe Afede said. “I am glad, so far, of the ORAL project. This big initiative, complemented by exciting policies such as the 24-hour economy, will deliver the development we want and continue to make Ghana an example for Africa.”
The 24-hour economy — a bold proposal to extend economic activity around the clock — has gained traction among reformists and job creation advocates in recent months. Togbe Afede made clear he sees it as more than just an economic experiment.
“Pairing strong anti-corruption action with transformative programmes like the 24-hour economy could drive growth, create jobs, and restore public trust,” he noted.
The comments come at a pivotal time, as the country grapples with high unemployment and growing public frustration over perceived impunity among the political elite. The government has promised aggressive recovery of stolen state assets under ORAL — a move that could mark a turning point, if followed through with transparency and accountability.
For Togbe Afede, however, the message is clear: Ghana’s future hinges on more than just infrastructure projects and policy promises. It’s about integrity, innovation — and action.
