In Ghana, just like most developing nations, there is the struggle with insufficient healthcare system. The public healthcare system is overwhelmed, underfunded, and understaffed.
Although the government is taking steps to provide all residents with universal health coverage, there is still more work to be done. There has been the need for a collaborative efforts in bridging the gap within the healthcare system.
AngloGold Ashanti Ghana, Obuasi Mine has committed to assisting government to address the challenges facing healthcare delivery in its operational areas.
The mining giant on Monday, November 7 commenced the construction of a modern Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound at Apitikooko, a farming community in the Obuasi Municipality.
This adds to a number of health intervention programmes rolled out by AngloGold Ashanti in Obuasi in recent times.
The mining company recently refurbished the Anyinam clinic and upgraded it into a health center.
The company has also started the construction of a health center at Binsere/ Dokyiwa, all in the Obuasi Municipality.
The Apitikooko community, situated in the heart of Obuasi, has long grappled with limited access to healthcare facilities.
Residents often faced the daunting prospect of traveling long distances to seek medical attention, which posed a considerable challenge, particularly during emergencies.
Senior Manager, Engineering at AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mines Ing. Eric Broni, said, “At AngloGold Ashanti Mine, we believe that investing in the well- being of the communities we operate in is paramount. Therefore, we are thrilled to be spearheading the establishment of the CHPS compound at Apitikooko”
He set the project is set to improve healthcare accessibility in the area, marking a milestone in the collaborative effort between the mining company, local government, and health authorities.
Ing Broni revealed that the project which cost GHS 3.5million will be completed and handed over in 7 months’ time.
He further intimated that in fulfilment of its commitment to empower local contractors as enshrined in their 10-year socio-economic development plan (SEDP), AngloGold Ashanti has contracted Bodtech Company Limited, an Obuasi based construction firm to put up the facility.
“This choice underscores the strong determination and dedication to bolster the local economy by supporting indigenous businesses in their efforts to uplift the community,” the Senior Manager Engineering added.
The Chief Executive for Obuasi Municipal, Elijah Adansi Bonah, commended the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and its dedication to improving the lives of the local communities in which it operates.
On his part, Martin Sarfo Osei, the Obuasi Municipal Health Director, stressed on the positive impact the CHPS compound would have on healthcare delivery in the area.
He noted that the facility would offer a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including maternal and child health care, family planning, immunizations, and treatment for common illnesses.
The Health Director again affirmed that initiative aligns with the government’s broader agenda to ensure healthcare equity for all citizens in Apitikooko and also pledged to bring health workers like nurses, midwives and more immediately the project is done.
Kunkahene Abusuapanin Kwaku Ponko III lauded AngloGold Ashanti for its immense contributions towards the development of Obuasi and the Mine’s operational area.
He called for the support for AngloGold Ashanti to enable them operate optimally.