Employing about one-third of Ghana’s total workforce, the agriculture sector is a major source of livelihood for families in mining communities. However, the rising cost of farm inputs, weed management difficulties, climate change and limited access to technical support continue to pose serious challenges to farmers.
In view of the persistent challenges, a mining company, Asanko Gold Ghana Limited, has launched Phase Two of its Community Agricultural Support Program (CASP).
In an address during the launch, the company’s General Manager, Justice Fenteng, said the 2nd phase has been structured to respond to the practical needs of farmers.
He said this phase will provide support for 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 stated that the package has been carefully selected to support key activities on the farm, from land preparation and weed management to safer working conditions, saying it will “help farmers use them effectively to improve farm performance.
Besides, Mr Fenteng further disclosed that the beneficiary farmers will undergo 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, commended 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.
Speaking on behalf of traditional leaders and farmers, the Chief of Kwabenaso, Nana Tabi Gyansah, said Asanko Gold Ghana Limited has a track record of supporting farmers with inputs.
“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 urged the farmers to take advantage of the support 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.
About CASP
CASP is a five-year development plan started in 2025 that seeks to link 500 farmers to cooperatives and credit schemes, while another 500 youth will be engaged in new agribusiness opportunities such as beekeeping, mushroom production, fish farming and piggery. 250 farmers will receive direct input support.
It aims to shift perceptions and show that communities in Amansie are not solely dependent on mining
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