Madam Faustilove Appiah Kannin, Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Obuasi, has called for investments in agriculture to diversify the local economy, create jobs and improve livelihoods.
She said although the municipality was recognized for its rich mineral resources and contribution from mining to the local and national economy, agriculture remained a viable sector for expanding economic activities to provide sustainable employment opportunities.
Madam Appiah Kannin made the call at an Agrifair organized by AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine and its partners in Obuasi.
The event, held on the theme: “Innovating Today, Nourishing Tomorrow: Building Sustainable Agriculture for Food Security and Economic Growth in Obuasi,” showcased farm produce, technologies and innovations, as well as explored opportunities for business networking and collaboration.
The MCE said agriculture could complement mining by creating additional employment opportunities and strengthening the resilience of the local economy.
Madam Appiah Kannin said government’s Feed Ghana Programme was expected to strengthen food security by promoting crop production, poultry and livestock farming, while reducing the country’s reliance on imported food.
She said investments in storage facilities, roads, processing infrastructure, and other links between farms and markets were also necessary to improve agricultural production and marketing.
Dr. Samuel Boakye Pobee, Managing Director of AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, said the Agri fair formed part of the Mine’s efforts to strengthen agriculture, promote local enterprise and create sustainable economic opportunities for residents of Obuasi and surrounding communities.
Dr. Pobee said the Mine’s commitment to community development went beyond economic returns to supporting initiatives that improved livelihoods and strengthened the resilience of communities.
He expressed appreciation to the development partners, traditional authorities and exhibitors for their support, saying the Agrifair provided an opportunity for agricultural stakeholders to showcase their products, share knowledge and explore business opportunities.
The Managing Director said the participation of various players in the agricultural value chain was important to building partnerships that would promote sustainable agriculture and contribute to the development of the local economy.
By Yussif Ibrahim, GNA