Olam food ingredients (ofi) Ghana Limited, a prominent player in the cocoa sector and a leading cashew exporter, has helped to bolster maternal health in Cashew Growing Communities. In an exemplary display of corporate responsibility and sustainability, ofi has conducted a pioneering Breastfeeding Awareness Programme at Pamdu in the Kintampo South district; and enhanced local healthcare infrastructure by furnishing the Delivery Ward and constructing a shed for the Mesidan Health Facility in the Techiman North district.
As part of a comprehensive approach to community well-being, ofi Ghana Limited and its female network group, Globally Reaching ofi Women (GROW), launched a Breastfeeding Awareness Programme in partnership with local healthcare experts at Pamdu in the Kintampo South district. The first part of the programme was organised at Pamdu, and the primary objective was to educate, empowerand support mothers in this cashew-growing community.
Participants were equipped with insights into breastfeeding best practices, nutritional needs, and overall maternal well-being. This initiative aimed to raise awareness and foster a sense of community solidarity through shared experiences and mutual support. The business donated medical supplies, such as a fridge to store vaccines and 2 weighing scales, to the Pamdu Health Unit and a gift set of diapers, wipes and soap to all nursing mothers participants.
General Manager for ofi‘s Cashew Business, Mr Yusif Amankwa, said: “ofi firmly believes in the transformative potential of education and awareness. This Breastfeeding Awareness Programme aims to positively impact the lives of mothers and infants in the Pamdu community by offering essential information and promoting healthy practices. We aim at contributing to the overall health and well-being of families in the region”.
In the second part of the programme, ofi Ghana handed over a newly-furnished modern delivery ward and a multi-purpose shed to Mesidan Health Facility. This contribution has the potential to enhance the facility’s capacity to provide vital maternal and child health services. ofi Ghana appreciates the role of accessible and quality healthcare in community growth and progress.
Mr. Yusif Amankwa further affirmed: “Our donation of the delivery ward and shed underscores our dedication to helping create enduring and meaningful impacts. By upgrading the local health facility, we aim to contribute to safer and more reliable healthcare services for the people of Mesidan. This endeavour aligns with our broader mission of enhancing the overall quality of life for communities we are privileged to collaborate with.”
Other speakers on the day included Nana Effah Boadum, Pamduhene; Nana Yaa Serwaa, Pamdu Hemaa; Nana Kwesi Twibrempong II, Mesidanhene; and District Chief Executive of Mesidan, Hon. Everson Addo Donkor. The District Health Promotion Officer, Mr Michael Gyampoh, thanked ofi Ghana for the financial support and called on corporate bodies to emulate the kind gesture.
The partnership between ofi Ghana and the two beneficiary communities serves as a model illustration of harmonious collaboration between corporate responsibility and community needs. Through initiatives like the Breastfeeding Awareness Programme and substantial healthcare facility enhancements, ofi Ghana continues to live its purpose of being a change for good and a healthy future.
The president of ofi Ghana’s Women’s Network (GROW) – the group that spearheaded the programme – Sylvia Amo-Asare said: “This multifaceted initiative promotes maternal and child health, and demonstrates the influential role that businesses can play in uplifting communities and fostering a brighter future for all”.
