Dabala (V/R), Feb. 13, GNA - The Agave State, Southern Ewe Traditional Area on Saturday formally announced the death of the Awomefia, (Paramount Chief), Togbega Azaxie Degenu III.

The State has consequently declared a state of mourning in the area spanning the next three months, which will culminate in the interment of th= e chief on Saturday April 16, this year.

The Spokesperson for the traditional area, Togbe Kowu Adzowe VII, Awadada (Warlord) told a traditional meeting at Dabala that the late Togbeg= a Degenu, 56, died on Friday May 8, 2009.

He was known in private life as Kwame Azaxie Degenu, a director at the Economic and Organised Crime Office.

Togbe Adzowe in his eulogy said the late Togbe Degenu who succeeded Togbe Hlitabo III (1940-1991) was an astute leader who built bonds criss-crossing all strata of Agave society and actively spurred the development of the area.

He listed some of his achievements as the documentation of chiefs in the area, amicable settlement of disputes especially land and chieftaincy issues, the transparent and ability to delegate powers, his active participation in the affairs of the Volta Regional House of Chiefs and yout= h policies. Togbe Boatri IV, Chief of Dome, who chaired the function said the late Togbega Degenu's had left a void and that his achievements in his 19 year reign would serve as a measure of performance for future chiefs. He urged chiefs in the area to reflect the interests and aspirations o= f their people as the late Togbega Degenu did.

Committees were named for the planning of the funeral as well as the launching of a calendar and funeral cloth. Highlights of the preparations include a 13-day ban on excessive noise making and all funerals from April 7 to April 20. All Agave citizens have been directed to wear red or black apparel or arm bands to mark the period of mourning.