By Elizabeth PUNSU, Obuasi
Obuasi Municipal Director of Health, Martin Sarfo Osei, has praised AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine (AGA) for its significant role in enhancing healthcare delivery at Obuasi.
He highlighted the various health infrastructure improvements and facility upgrades undertaken by AGA which have addressed numerous health challenges previously unattended.
Speaking at AGA’s second quarter annual free mini-clinic held at the Black Park in Obuasi, Mr. Sarfo Osei emphasised that these free screenings have helped identify individuals with conditions they might not have otherwise sought treatment for.
“Since 2022, about 102 people have been diagnosed with hepatitis-B and are now receiving treatment; and more than 538 individuals have been found to have sickle-cell anemia,” he mentioned.
The collaboration between AGA Health Foundation (AGAHF), Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Health Foundation, GIZ (the German Development Agency), Ghana Health Service and the AGA Malaria Control Programme has facilitated these free screenings.
Community Relations Manager, Edmund Oduro Agyei, in his opening remarks affirmed AGA’s commitment to its mission of mining to empower people and advance societies.
“Since 2021, through our Social Management Plan (SMP) and the 10-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan (SEDP), AGA has organised 14 mini-clinics and health outreach programmes. These initiatives, aligned with international commemorative days such as World Malaria Day and Breast and Prostate Cancer months, have screened and treated about 30,000 people,” he noted.
Mr. Oduro Agyei also highlighted the training of over 500 health workers in various health sub-specialties: including burns treatment and management; heavy metals and toxins management; cervical, neonatal and infectious disease prevention. These efforts have been crucial in enhancing the capacity of local healthcare providers.
To further improve access to quality healthcare in Obuasi and surrounding areas, AGA is constructing modern health facilities equipped with state-of-the-art amenities.
In 2023, the Anyinam Clinic was refurbished and upgraded to a Health Centre. Currently, a new health centre is being constructed to serve the New Dokyiwaa/Binsere communities; Akrokerri Health Centre is being expanded to include a surgical theatre; and a new clinic is being built at Apitikooko. These developments aim to provide residents with quality medical care close to home, reducing their need for travel.
Reflecting on these achievements, Mr. Oduro Agyei expressed pride in the impact of AGA’s initiatives on the community. He noted that the collective efforts of all involved have not only provided essential healthcare services but also raised awareness about the importance of early detection and prevention through these mini-clinics.
