Asanko Gold launches phase two of community agricultural support program

Agriculture remains a major source of food and income for families in mining communities, yet farmers continue to face rising input costs, weed-control challenges, changing rainfall patterns and limited access to technical support.

To address these challenges, Asanko Gold Ghana Limited has launched Phase Two of its Community Agricultural Support Program (CASP).

Speaking at the launch, the General Manager for Asanko Gold Ghana Limited, Mr. Justice Fenteng, said the phase has been structured to respond to the practical needs of farmers.

According to him, the phase will support 80 smallholder farmers from 12 catchment communities in the Obotan and Esaase project areas.

"Each participating farmer cultivates at least one acre of land and will receive weed-control inputs, Wellington boots, a raincoat, a cutlass and a knapsack sprayer," Mr. Fenteng announced.

He explained that the package has been carefully selected to support key activities on the farm, from land preparation and weed management to safer working conditions.

"This package is not simply to distribute items, but to help farmers use them effectively to improve farm performance," he stressed.

Mr. Fenteng noted that beneficiary farmers will also receive practical training in improved and climate-resilient farming methods, with extension officers from the Departments of Agriculture in Amansie West and Amansie South providing technical guidance throughout the production cycle.

He added that a joint Steering Committee will review progress each month to ensure planned activities are completed and challenges addressed promptly.

Meanwhile, the District Chief Executive for Amansie South, Mr. Benjamin Marfo, hailed Asanko Gold for the support.

He noted that the company has been at the forefront of supporting farmers in its catchment area, improving farming outcomes.

"The company has been at the forefront of supporting farmers in their catchment area, improving farming outcomes," Mr. Marfo stated.

He pledged the Assembly's commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to ensure good farming practices.

Speaking on behalf of traditional leaders and farmers, the Chief of Kwabenaso, Nana Tabi Gyansah, said this was the third time he has witnessed Asanko Gold Ghana Limited giving out farming inputs to farmers.

"This is the third time I have witnessed Asanko Gold Ghana Limited giving out farming inputs to farmers. The move by Asanko has gone a long way to encouraging farmers," Nana Gyansah said.

He added that the farming inputs come with training, helping farmers to adopt good farming practices.

He urged the farmers to take advantage of the support from Asanko Gold Ghana Limited to improve their yields.

Mr. Fenteng concluded by urging participating farmers to attend training sessions, use the inputs for their intended purpose and share useful practices with other farmers, expressing hope that Phase Two will translate into visible improvements and lasting benefits for households.