January 22, 1966: The Volta River Hydro-electric Project is inaugurated

 

In concluding his speech to the national assembly on the Hydro project on March 25, 1963, Kwame Nkrumah said:

……”I would like to urge the Members of the National Assembly to visit the Dam site at Akosombo from time to time and to persuade their constituents and friends here and abroad to come and see this gigantic dream come true. It is indeed an inspiring experience to visit the Dam site and imbibe the message of hope and growth it conveys for our Nation. Major projects such as the Volta are the new "places of Pilgrimage" in this modern Age of Science and Technology. They serve as monuments to the determination and dedication of a whole people to raise themselves to a fuller and richer life. In this noble endeavour, we welcome foreign Capital — institutional or Private-from all sources, provided it is offered without strings and it is attracted to this country not merely by the economic viability of projects but especially by a spirit of true partnership and a willingness to help to build up Ghana’s prosperity and the welfare of its people on enduring foundations”

The project was inaugurated by the president on January 22, 1966. His full speech follows:

http://www.vra.com/kmportal/learning/non-tech/Inauguration%20of%20Volta%20river%20Authority.pdf