By Elizabeth PUNSU, Kumasi
AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine (AGA) has formally handed over a state-of-the-art soap-making factory to the Dokyiwa community in Obuasi municipality, marking a significant milestone in its drive to support local economic empowerment.
The GH₵1.8million facility, constructed under AGA’s 10-Year Socioeconomic Development Plan (SEDP), is expected to serve as a hub for entrepreneurial development and sustainable livelihoods – particularly for women in the area.
The inauguration ceremony was held at Dokyiwa and saw a large turnout of community members, traditional leaders and stakeholders.
The soap factory will be operated by the Dokyiwa Peace Women’s Cooperative Group, a community-based organisation formed in 2023 through facilitation by the Obuasi Mine. Members of the cooperative have received extensive training in soap-making, baking, product packaging, branding and marketing – all crucial skills for sustaining small-scale enterprises.
The facility is part of AngloGold Ashanti’s Enterprise Development Programme, an initiative within the broader 10-year Socio-Economic Development Plan (SEDP) designed to diversify Obuasi’s economy and enhance local livelihoods.
In efforts to get the factory running and bring in more profits, AGA also has stocked the facility with up to six months of raw material as motivation to enhance work.
By targetting women entrepreneurs, AGA aims to harness their pivotal role in driving community development and prosperity.
Community Relations Manager-AngloGold Ashanti, Edmund Oduro Agyei, speaking at a ceremony to hand over the facility reaffirmed the mines’ dedication to advancing socio-economic development in its host communities.
Mr. Oduro Agyei indicated that the project goes beyond simply producing soap, emphasising that: “It’s about generating sustainable income, creating jobs and fostering a self-reliant community business. We are investing in the economic independence of women and building a future where local enterprises can thrive”.
He expressed appreciation to the traditional authority, community members and all stakeholders whose support has helped bring this vision to life.
Furthermore, Mr. Oduro Agyei expressed confidence that the factory will flourish and contribute positively to Dokyiwa, Obuasi and the Ashanti Region as a whole.
The soap factory was made possible through collaborative efforts of local contractors Xmell Company Limited and MC Hammer Company Ltd., a testament to the strength of local industry and AngloGold Ashanti’s commitment to promoting local content.
Chief Executive-Obuasi Municipal Assembly, Faustilove Appiah-Kanin, for her part expressed appreciation to AngloGold Ashanti for their numerous contributions to growth of Obuasi community and the local economy by empowering indigenes with hand skills.
She further urged them not to relent in their efforts in doing more by employing more local people and providing avenues to create more jobs among other social amenities especially for the hinterlands.
