Asanko Gold Mine Launches Five-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan at Manso Nkwanta:

Asanko Gold Mine, a renowned mining company operating in Ghana, has officially launched a five-year Socio-Economic Development Plan (SEDP) at Manso Nkwanta in the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region.

The initiative, which forms part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy, is aimed at addressing pressing issues and giving back to the local communities within its operational areas especially Amansie west and south districts. The SEDP is expected to enhance livelihoods, promote sustainable development, and improve the overall well-being of residents in the host communities.

Focusing on areas such as education, health, infrastructure, and economic empowerment, Asanko Gold Mine seeks to foster long-term, inclusive growth that benefits both the community and the company.

Addressing the occasion, Mr. Ahmed Mohadini-Yahaya, the General Manager of Asanko Gold Ghana Limited, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the resolution of developmental challenges that have long hindered progress within their catchment areas.

He expressed hope that this commitment would serve as a catalyst for real economic transformation,not only for the immediate mining communities but also for surrounding regions.

“We hope our collective dream becomes a reality and drives sustainable development that benefits present and future generations,” he added.

According to him, some of the company’s key priorities include bringing development directly to the doorsteps of the people and creating more job opportunities particularly for today’s youth. This, he emphasized, is part of Asanko Gold Ghana Limited’s commitment to supporting the government’s efforts to reduce the high unemployment rate in the country, a challenge that requires a shared and collective effort.

During a public engagement, the two District Chief Executives,Hon. Prince Manu Moris of Amansie West and Hon. Benjamin Marfo of Amansie South made a heartfelt appeal to all stakeholders involved in the development of their respective districts. In particular, they called on Asanko Gold Mine, a key player in the area’s economic landscape, to strengthen its collaboration with the District Assemblies for equal sharing.

In their speeches, the two leaders stressed the importance of building strong, transparent, and sustained partnerships between corporate entities and local government authorities. They emphasized that such collaboration is essential to ensuring that the benefits of development, including infrastructure, health, education, and social services are distributed fairly and equitably across all communities within the districts.

Hon. Prince Manu Moris noted that while development efforts have been ongoing, some communities continue to lag behind in receiving critical infrastructure and services. He urged Asanko Gold Mine and other stakeholders to adopt an inclusive approach that prioritizes the needs of all communities, regardless of their proximity to mining operations.

Similarly, Hon. Benjamin Marfo touched on the transformative potential of mining revenues and corporate social responsibility initiatives when they are aligned with the developmental plans of the District Assemblies. He also encouraged Asanko Gold Mine and other partners to engage in regular dialogue with local authorities to identify priority areas for investment and to ensure accountability in the use of resources.

Both DCEs concluded by reaffirming their commitment to working closely with all development partners to build stronger, more resilient, and prosperous communities across Amansie West and Amansie South.

The event was well-attended by a diverse group of stakeholders, reflecting the collective interest in the ongoing development of the Amansie West and Amansie South Districts.

Among those present were representatives of the security services, including officers from the Ghana Police Service and other relevant agencies, who were there to ensure order and also demonstrate their support for community development initiatives.

Also in attendance were respected traditional leaders,chiefs, queen mothers, and elders whose presence lent cultural significance and authority to the proceedings. These traditional rulers continue to play a vital role in community mobilization and development, making their involvement both symbolic and practical.

In addition, the gathering brought together a wide array of opinion leaders from various communities across both districts. These included assembly members, youth leaders, women’s group representatives, religious figures,heads of department and civil society actors. Their participation highlighted the broad-based community interest in ensuring equitable distribution of developmental projects and reinforced the call for stronger collaboration between corporate entities, like Asanko Gold Mine, and the local government structures.

Together, the diverse representation at the event underscored a shared commitment to unity, transparency, and progress in the developmental agenda of the two districts.

At the colourful launching ceremony, several chiefs, including Okofo Nana Boakye Yiadom I, Chief of Manso Subinso, and Nana Yaw Sarfo Boateng II, Chief of Manso Kumpese, along with other participants, shared their views. They reminded Asanko Gold Mine Limited to strengthen the relationship it has established with community members and to honour the promises it has made.

Source:CEO,Justice Baffour Awuah//www.dailywatchgh.com