Residents in parts of Obuasi have received a major boost in access to healthcare following the commissioning of two new health facilities by AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery in its host communities.
The Apitikooko Health Centre and Staff Quarters, constructed at a cost of GH¢4,077,496.70, and the Dokyiwa/Binsere Health Centre, valued at GH¢2,712,264.20, are expected to improve access to primary healthcare services, including maternal and child health, outpatient care and emergency services.
The projects were executed under the Mine’s 10-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan (SEDP), which focuses on creating sustainable social investments in communities affected by mining operations.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Managing Director of AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, Mr. Samuel Boakye Pobee, said the facilities represented a long-term investment in building healthier and more resilient communities.
He explained that the inclusion of staff accommodation at the Apitikooko facility was intended to attract and retain healthcare professionals, ensuring consistent and reliable service delivery.
Mr. Pobee said the new facilities formed part of a wider healthcare improvement programme by the Mine, which includes the rehabilitation of the Anyinam Health Centre, the ongoing construction of the Akaporiso Model Health Centre and the quarterly Mini Clinic outreach programme.
He said the combined interventions were aimed at strengthening healthcare systems and improving health outcomes among residents in Obuasi and surrounding communities.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, commended AngloGold Ashanti for supporting government’s efforts to expand healthcare infrastructure across the country.
In a speech read on his behalf, he described the projects as evidence of the positive impact of public-private partnerships in promoting sustainable community development.
He urged residents to take good care of the facilities to ensure they continue to benefit present and future generations.
The Ashanti Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Fred Adomako-Boateng, described the facilities as a significant addition to primary healthcare delivery in the region.
He assured that the Ghana Health Service would work to ensure the centres were properly staffed and efficiently managed to provide quality services to residents.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiary communities, Dompoasehene Okofo Kwabena Bonsu expressed appreciation to AngloGold Ashanti for the investment, describing the facilities as a valuable legacy that would improve healthcare access and enhance the overall wellbeing of residents.
He said the projects would contribute to the long-term socioeconomic development of Obuasi and surrounding communities by ensuring that residents have access to improved healthcare services closer to their homes.
