A massive crowd of enthusiastic residents filled the streets of Tsiame in the Volta Region on Saturday, April 19, to welcome the Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, as he returned to his ancestral hometown. The warm reception was more than just ceremonial—it symbolised the profound respect and admiration the people of Tsiame have for their distinguished son.
Afenyo-Markin’s visit, anchored under a homecoming initiative focused on women’s empowerment, brought together hundreds from Tsiame and neighbouring communities. The joy and excitement were palpable as people lined the streets, waving and cheering to celebrate his presence. For many, the moment marked a rare opportunity to interact directly with a national figure they admire, and the turnout reflected a deep emotional connection between the MP and his roots.
Speaking to the crowd, the Minority Leader described the reception as touching and symbolic. He highlighted that his journey back home was more than a personal one—it was a message to all that community ties and national development must go hand in hand. He pointed out that meaningful change begins at the community level, where every effort made can ripple into national progress.
Afenyo-Markin did not come empty-handed. He made generous donations, including over 30 hairdryers, sewing machines, and other essential tools to support vocational training and income-generating activities, particularly for women and young ladies. The gesture was met with loud cheers and expressions of gratitude. Clarifying the motive behind the donation, he stated that the initiative stemmed from goodwill and a desire to uplift the lives of his people. He firmly denied any political motive, stressing that he had no intentions of contesting in the Keta Constituency.
Standing beside him in support was the Member of Parliament for Keta, Kwame Dzudzorli Gakpe, who commended the Minority Leader for his selfless initiative. He acknowledged that the tools would significantly strengthen ongoing apprenticeship efforts and encouraged other MPs to replicate such impactful projects within their own constituencies. He also urged beneficiaries to make the most of the support to build sustainable livelihoods.
The event also drew remarks from Bernard Suka, a former Assembly Member for Tsiame and Deputy Secretary of the NPP in Keta. Suka lauded Afenyo-Markin’s consistent dedication to service, noting that his acts of kindness and public engagement had earned him admiration far beyond the Volta Region. He described him as a role model whose life story inspires young people to work hard and believe in their dreams.
Several beneficiaries, speaking to reporters, expressed joy and appreciation for the donations. Many shared plans to expand their small businesses, begin apprenticeships, or finally kick-start long-held dreams. The gifts, though physical, symbolised hope—a tangible reminder that their futures are worth investing in.
Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s visit to Tsiame was not just a return to his roots—it was a beacon of community empowerment and a reflection of leadership rooted in compassion.