Ave-Havi (V/R), Sept. 12, GNA - The citizens of Ave-Havi, a farming community in the Akatsi District of the Volta Region have resolved to raise over GH=A2 2,000 towards the construction of a chief's palace and a modern complex community centre for the town.

The project, expected to be completed by 2010 will house the chief as well as serve as a court of arbitration, library, guest lodge, office and a documentation centre.

This was disclosed by the Chairman of Ave-Havi town development union, Mr Simon Donkor at the national executive meeting held at La Beach Hotel in Accra last Saturday. In a brief address, Mr. Donkor said the power and influence of chiefs in contemporary politics had been on the decline due to some chiefs lacking basic necessities such as a fitting palace, decent ceremonial dresses and enough money to maintain the traditional office. He attributed this situation to lack of concern by the people to the wellbeing of their traditional rulers, saying, "it is very unfortunate because the chiefs represent our culture and tradition and when they are ignored our cultural heritage is also lost. Mr Donkor therefore called on all citizens of Ave-Havi, home and abroad to take up the challenge of making generous donations towards the project in order to restore the image and dignity of their chiefs and people at home.

The General Secretary of the Union, Mr Richard Tsisah intimated that the community centre, when completed would be used for recreational activities, for funeral ceremonies, family gathering, marriage festivities and for non-denominational church services. The chief of the area, Togbi Ahiabor Gamor VI noted that the functional significance of the chiefs has not changed and it is up to the present generation to ensure that traditional rulers are not stripped off the esteem and respect they had in the past. The assembly member of the area, Mr.Francis K.Nyavor assured the people of the support of the District Assembly and appealed to charitable organizations, NGOs, well-meaning individuals and groups and the government to come to the aid of the people.