Asanko Gold Partners Health Authorities to Combat Rising Malaria Across Amansie West
Asanko Gold Ghana Limited is joining forces with health officials in the Amansie West District. They are working together to fight a growing problem of malaria infections. The district is seeing more people getting sick with malaria. This is especially true for young children under five years old. This partnership aims to find solutions to this public health challenge.
Data from the District Health Directorate reveals a worrying trend. Malaria cases reported at outpatient clinics rose from over 36,000 in 2024 to more than 38,000 in 2025. The situation is more serious for children under five. Their cases jumped from 8,000 in 2024 to 10,000 in 2025. Health experts believe these increases are because of uncovered pits. These pits are left behind by illegal mining, known as galamsey. These water-filled pits have become perfect places for mosquitoes to breed.
This malaria surge in Amansie West links to broader issues in Ghana. Environmental degradation from illegal mining poses health risks. It can also affect local economies reliant on agriculture. The company’s involvement highlights the role of large corporations in community health. In past years, Ghana has worked to reduce malaria through campaigns. This current situation shows the fight is far from over. The year 2025 saw more than 38,000 cases in the district. 10,000 of these were children under five.
Bernard Badu Bediako, the District Director of Health Services, stressed the need for united action. He praised Asanko Gold for their ongoing help. "Efforts are now shifting from control to elimination through intensified public education," he stated. He also urged residents to finish their malaria medicines. "Many patients stop treatment prematurely after symptoms subside," he noted. He also encouraged using mosquito nets every night. "The benefits far outweigh the risks of infection," he added.
To mark World Malaria Day in 2026, Asanko Gold organised a health screening event. This took place in Manso Abore and nearby towns. The screening offered malaria tests, blood pressure checks, and general medical advice. The company also gave more than 2,000 insecticide-treated nets to students. Justice Fenteng, General Manager of Asanko Gold Ghana Limited, said the company is dedicated to better health. Asanko Gold has funded health facilities, like compounds at Tetrem and Krofrom. He said everyone must work together to stop malaria.