Togbe Afede XIV
Togbe Afede XIV (born James Akpo; 23 April 1957) is the Agbogbomefia, or paramount chief, of the Asogli State in Ghana's Volta Region, a position he has held since his enstoolment on 4 October 2003 by the state's kingmakers.[1][2] As president of the Asogli Traditional Council, he presides over the traditional governance of the autonomous kingdom encompassing areas like Ho, Akoefe, and Kpenoe, while also serving as a key figure in national chieftaincy affairs as president of the National House of Chiefs.[3][2] Beyond his traditional roles, Togbe Afede XIV is a distinguished entrepreneur who founded Databank Financial Services and Strategic African Securities (SAS), pioneering stock brokerage and corporate finance advisory in Ghana, and established Strategic Initiatives Ltd. in 1999 as a private equity firm.[1][3] His business portfolio extends to majority ownership of Accra Hearts of Oak Sporting Club, co-founding Africa World Airlines and Sunon Asogli Power Ghana Ltd., and chairmanship of World Trade Centre Accra, contributing significantly to sectors including aviation, energy, and finance.[1] Earlier, he lectured in finance at the University of Ghana from 1989 to 1994 and advised on economic policy as a member of the 2009 Government Transition Team and President’s Economic Advisory Council until 2013.[1] Togbe Afede XIV's leadership emphasizes development, including initiatives like the Asogli Education Fund, the inaugural tourist and business guide to Ho, and delegations to China for investment in agriculture, energy, and ICT; he received Ghana's Greatest Entrepreneur of All Time Award in 2021 for these endeavors.[2][3] His dual pursuit of traditional authority and modern enterprise has positioned him as a model of integrated leadership, fostering economic growth in Asogli State through cultural events like the Teza Yam Festival and strategic partnerships.[2]