Professor Hugh K. Aryee, the Vanuatu Trade Commissioner to Ghana, has reaffirmed his commitment to fostering sustainable development in the Mafi Traditional Area, with a strong emphasis on youth empowerment and digital innovation.
During a strategic engagement with traditional leaders, government officials, and community members in Adidome, Central Tongu District, Prof Aryee highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to tackle unemployment through strategic skills development.
He noted that his office remains dedicated to supporting development initiatives that provide the youth of Mafi with practical training and opportunities to enhance their employability and entrepreneurial potential.
Prof Aryee said: “Our vision is to ensure that the youth of Mafi are not left behind in the global shift towards innovation and technology. Through our targeted training programmes, we aim to equip them with relevant skills—particularly in artificial intelligence (AI)—to drive transformation in education, business, and other critical sectors.”
The ambassador’s visit also marked the formal introduction of a cohort of young individuals from Mafi, who have completed AI training programmes supported by the Vanuatu Trade Commission.
The initiative, which seeks to train over 3,000 youth and traditional leaders in the region, is aimed at accelerating local development through the application of AI tools and technologies.

Ambassador Aryee further disclosed that his office is actively engaging potential investors to explore opportunities within the Mafi enclave, reiterating his commitment to facilitating additional development projects in collaboration with local authorities and urged the Mafi Traditional Council to maintain strong ties with the Commission.
Togbe Asafo Buatri IV, Acting President of the Mafi Traditional Council, welcomed the initiative and expressed appreciation for the Ambassador’s ongoing support.
He cited the AI training and the Commission’s involvement in last year’s Mafi Hogbetsotso Festival as key examples of the growing partnership.
“The presence of the Ambassador not only reaffirms our mutual commitment to development but also opens new avenues for strategic collaboration,” Togbe Buatri noted.
“We remain committed to supporting these efforts and working together to realize the full potential of our people.”
Mr. Alexander Roosevelt Hotordze, Member of Parliament of Central Tongu and Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Trade and Industry, also endorsed the initiative.
He emphasised the importance of leveraging technology to advance development across the constituency.
“I encourage the youth to take full advantage of this opportunity to upskill themselves and contribute meaningfully to the progress of our traditional area. My office will continue to support such forward-looking programmes,” Mr. Hotordze stated.
Mr. Dodzi Addison Mornyuie, District Chief Executive (DCE) of Central Tongu, also pledged the Assembly’s commitment to sustaining the partnership with the Vanuatu Trade Commission.
He expressed confidence that the AI training and other collaborative efforts would positively impact key sectors within the district.
“The Assembly stands ready to facilitate and implement these initiatives, ensuring they bring long-term benefits to our people,” the DCE affirmed.
He mentioned that the engagement underscores the growing partnership between the Vanuatu Trade Commission and local stakeholders in Central Tongu, reflecting a shared vision for inclusive development and technological advancement.