The Volta Regional Representative on the Council of State, Dr Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple, has engaged American businessman, investor and philanthropist Dr John P. Rochon on potential investment opportunities in the Volta Region.

The engagement which also involved Al Lewis, Chief Executive Officer of Catalyst Green LLC, explored the region’s investment prospects with particular attention to lithium exploration and other natural resources.

Dr Kwamigah-Atokple said the initiative formed part of his commitment to use his position on the Council of State to promote economic development in addition to performing its traditional advisory function.

He explained that when he sought the opportunity to serve on the Council of State, he envisioned a broader role that would help create opportunities for economic transformation and improve the livelihoods of people in the region.

“One of the key priorities I have is to identify credible investors and promote business opportunities capable of creating jobs, strengthening local expertise and stimulating sustainable economic activity,” he said.

Dr Kwamigah-Atokple stressed the need for the Volta Region to move beyond the export of raw materials and instead develop industries that would process and add value to its natural resources locally.

“The Volta Region possessed considerable economic potential and that attracting strategic investment could help transform its resources into productive industries, employment opportunities and long-term economic benefits for residents,” he stressed.

The Council of State representative also drew attention to Dr Rochon’s philanthropic record, particularly his support for hospital projects in Malawi.

He said such international investment experience, business expertise and philanthropic interest could be leveraged to support development initiatives in the Volta Region.

Dr Kwamigah-Atokple expressed optimism that the engagement would help open avenues for international partnerships and investment, particularly in natural-resource development and local value addition.

The engagement forms part of broader efforts to position the Volta Region as an attractive destination for international investment while ensuring the exploitation of its natural resources contributes meaningfully to local economic development, job creation and improved livelihoods.

Dr Rochon brings more than four decades of experience spanning finance, business strategy, investment, marketing and political strategy. 

He is the founder of Richmont, a private investment and business holding company as well as the Rochon Family Office, a multi-billion-dollar single-family office based in the United States.

He also previously served as a Board Chairman of Mary Kay, the global cosmetics company with millions of women customers across the world.