Minority Leader in Parliament, Osahen Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has assured the people of Tsiame in the Volta Region—his paternal ancestral home—that his return to the community marks the beginning of meaningful development.
Addressing a colourful durbar held in his honour on Thursday, April 17, 2025, the Effutu MP emphasized that while Winneba—his maternal home and the heart of his political constituency—remains a priority, Tsiame is equally dear to him.
“Tsiame is my hometown. That is where my father hails from. Winneba is my mother’s side. As I continue to work hard for Effutu, I want to assure you that I will not leave Tsiame behind,” he assured.
As part of his commitment, Afenyo-Markin stressed the need to harness human potential in the area—especially among women—by providing tools for self-sufficiency and economic empowerment. He believes this will lay a strong foundation for long-term progress.
Quoting Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, he said: “Our independence is meaningless unless it is linked up with the total liberation of the African continent.” He extended that spirit to the people of Tsiame, declaring: “The progress of Tsiame, and indeed Ghana, is meaningless unless it is linked to the total liberation of our women from economic hardship.”
He donated 100 sewing machines and 100 hair dryers—valued in thousands of Ghana cedis—to women’s groups in the area, as part of a skills development and livelihood initiative.
“These aren’t just machines. They’re keys to self-reliance, symbols of dreams in motion, and a foundation for women to build their own future,” he remarked.
Afenyo-Markin’s arrival in Tsiame was nothing short of spectacular. He was met with jubilant cheers, a convoy of motorbikes, and enthusiastic students lining the streets to welcome him home.
Despite speculation about possible political motives behind his visit, the Effutu MP was quick to set the record straight.
“I am not here to prepare myself to contest as MP for Keta. I will never consider running for this seat—not as an independent, not at all. My visit is purely personal and developmental. It’s a humble contribution in honour of the parents who gave me life,” he clarified.
The MP for Keta, Kwame Gakpey, who joined Afenyo-Markin at the event, praised the visit as a powerful demonstration of national unity.
“This event showcases what we can achieve when political lines don’t divide us. Traditional leaders, government, and citizens, all working together for a common goal—this is what nation-building looks like,” Gakpey said.
He urged beneficiaries of the donated items to make good use of them and cautioned, “Don’t sell them—use them to uplift yourselves economically.”
Kenneth Ashigbey, Convener of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey and chair of the event, commended the gesture, describing it as a bold act that transcends political lines.
“That leaders from both the NPP and NDC—Hon. Afenyo-Markin and Hon. Gakpey—can stand together for development speaks volumes. Our region is in need of growth, and it’s up to us to drive it. Development doesn’t wear party colours,” he stressed.