In a decisive move to reshape the socio-economic landscape of the Amansie West and South districts, Asanko Gold Ghana Ltd has launched an ambitious five-year development plan that aims to empower communities through strategic investments in infrastructure, education, health, and economic empowerment.
The initiative, officially unveiled during a gathering at the Manso Nkwanta Assembly, outlines a clear roadmap focused on agriculture and livelihood development, access to quality education, improved healthcare, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), and youth and women empowerment.
General Manager of Asanko Gold, Mr. Ahmed Mohadini-Yahaya, described the initiative as a “social contract” between the mining company and the people of its operational areas. “In 2025, we are set to roll out a series of impactful programs, including the Asanko Youth Apprenticeship Program, the Asanko Scholarship Scheme, and the Women in Soap-Making initiative,” he stated.
The youth apprenticeship program, he explained, is designed to tackle unemployment by equipping young people with practical skills and hands-on training relevant to today’s job market. Similarly, the scholarship initiative will support bright but financially challenged students from the mine’s catchment communities in pursuing tertiary education.
Asanko Gold Ongoing commitment to local development
Since the start of its commercial operations in 2016, Asanko Gold has invested in several development projects, including the construction of a 6-unit classroom block at Kwabenaso and a 5-unit teachers’ quarters at Asuadai. The company has also addressed water challenges by installing mechanized boreholes to reduce the daily burden on women and children who travel long distances for water.
District Chief Executive for Amansie West, Hon. Prince Morrison Manu, praised the initiative, aligning it with the NDC’s 2024 manifesto policies. “I fully endorse this plan as a vital step towards reducing unemployment and addressing the menace of illegal mining (galamsey) in our district,” he said.
His counterpart from Amansie South, Hon. Benjamin Marfo, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that the plan could reduce government’s development burden in the district by as much as 50 percent.
The event also marked the formal enrollment of 80 youth into the first group of individuals participating in a new program, initiative, or course of study of the Asanko Youth Apprenticeship Program. Representing Manso Nkwanta Hene, Nana Bi-Kusi Appiah II urged the company to follow through on its promises, stating, “Let this not remain on paper—implementing these plans is what will truly transform our communities.”
