AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) Obuasi Mine has invested GHS 2.86 million in a new piggery production centre. The facility opened in Sanso within the Obuasi municipality. This initiative aims to create alternative livelihoods and expand economic opportunities beyond mining.
The project falls under AGA's 10-year Socio-Economic Development Plan (SEDP). It seeks to increase pig production, improve food security, and support agribusiness in the Obuasi municipality and Obuasi East district. The investment underscores AGA's commitment to strengthening local economies through sustainable agricultural practices.
This investment aligns with Ghana's broader efforts to diversify its economy away from an over-reliance on minerals. The agricultural sector remains a significant employer and contributor to Ghana's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Initiatives like these can enhance food security and rural incomes, supporting the government's 'Planting for Food and Jobs' agenda. Data from the Ghana Statistical Service shows agriculture contributes significantly to rural employment, making such local investments impactful.
Edmund Oduro Agyei, Director of Sustainability Management at AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, stated the project is part of the company’s strategy. He explained it supports sustainable livelihoods and strengthens local economies through agriculture. Mr. Oduro Agyei highlighted agriculture as a critical part of the mine's community development programme. This includes previous initiatives like the Climate Resilience Oil Palm Plantation Programme (CROPP) and the Piggery and Aquaculture Programme launched in 2025.
The piggery programme's pilot phase showed positive results, according to Mr. Oduro Agyei. Nine beneficiary farmers increased their combined pig population from 173 to 428 animals. These results informed the decision to establish the new large-scale production centre. The investment includes GHS 1.49 million for construction and GHS 1.37 million for breeding stock, veterinary services, training, and feed support. Local contractor X-Mell Construction executed the project, which includes 20 pig pens, office space, storage, and a solar-powered energy system. The Obuasi Municipal Cooperative Pig Farmers and Marketing Society Limited will manage the facility. Its members received training in animal husbandry, record-keeping, and cooperative management. Obuasi Municipal Chief Executive Faustilove Appiah Kanin commended the initiative, urging beneficiaries to ensure its long-term financial viability.
Implications
This investment will likely boost local supply chains for pork products in the Ashanti Region. It could also inspire other mining companies to invest in similar community development projects. Decision-makers will observe the project's success in creating sustainable economic alternatives. This will inform future policy on corporate social responsibility in Ghana's extractive sector.