Introduction
A time of discussions, giving back and celebration – that was the whole mood during this visit. From the 2nd of September to the 4th of September 2025, Dr. Susanne Dattenberg-Doyle, Development Queen of Gbi-Kpoeta, Hohoe, and her husband, Mr. Thomas Dattenberg-Doyle, recently visited Ghana together. During her visit, she travelled to Gbi-Kpoeta, Hohoe, the community where she was crowned Queen of Development and where she built a school 20 years ago.
Gbi-Kpoeta, HoHoe in Ghana
Gbi-Kpoeta is one of the nine towns forming the Gbi-Dzigbe traditional area in Ghana’s Volta Region. It lies approximately 215 km from Accra and just about 2.5 km from Hohoe. The Dayi River runs nearby and serves as a key water source for the town and surrounding communities. The current chief, Togbe Adom Dake X, was enstooled in late 2023 and emphasizes economic growth through investments in industry, energy, real estate, and infrastructure—like bridges, scholarships, and community centers. Gbi-Kpoeta’s economy is diverse and community-driven, with activities such as agro-processing, mining, traditional crafts and services such as hairdressing, repairs, masonry, and mechanical trades. It is here where Dr. Susanne and the R:Ed team decide to pay them a visit and to give back to the community.
The R:Ed team, the Community Elders and Dr. Susanne posing with the District Queen (standing next to Dr. Susanne). Photo credit – Provided by Marian Gloria Gyamfi, COO of R:Ed.
The Visit to the District Queen and the Chief of Gbi-Kpoeta
On the second and third of September, Dr. Susanne Dattenberg-Doyle, her husband, Mr. Thomas Dattenberg-Doyle and the R:Ed team went to visit the District Queen Mama Dakesi IV, the Chief of Gbi-Kpoeta, Togbe Adom Dake X and the elders of the community. They engaged in discussions and talked about the district, the school and the good work Right for Education Africa is doing. She made it known that even if she is not there all the time, Dr. Susanne is still committed to the community, and that she is always available to help and support them.
The R:Ed team, Dr. Susi and the Chief of Gbi-Kpoeta, Togbe Adom Dake X (Dressed in the black and white shirt with the glasses), and the Community Elders. Photo credit – Provided by Marian Gloria Gyamfi, COO of R:Ed.
School Visit
On the third of September, the R:Ed team went to visit Gbi-Kpoeta MA Primary and JHS, Hohoe to donate to the schools and to inspect the development of the school she has established. While they were there, the R:Ed team donated 100 bags of cement and two tips of sand to support the renovation of the two school buildings, and exercise books to the students. Dr. Susanne got to be up close with some of the students, and they engaged in conversation together. After the donations and talks with the headmaster and teachers of the schools, Dr. Susanne, Mr Thomas and the R:Ed team were spoilt with a song and dance ceremony, organised by the children.
Dr. Susanne meeting with the schoolchildren. Photo credit – Provided by Marian Gloria Gyamfi, COO of R:Ed.
Conclusion
From giving back to schools to sharing in the community’s embrace, this visit was nothing short of inspirational, educative and entertaining. The community celebrated her visit with cultural displays and warm hospitality, reflecting the strong bond between Dr. Susanne and the people of Gbi-Kpoeta.
Dr. Susanne dancing with the schoolchildren. Photo credit – Provided by Marian Gloria Gyamfi, COO of R:Ed.
