Stakeholders in the agriculture sector of Obuasi, Ghana, have launched a maiden Agrifair to position the town as a major agricultural hub, moving beyond its traditional identity as a gold mining community. According to MyJoyOnline, the initiative is a collaborative effort involving two local municipal assemblies and AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi Mine. The primary objectives of the fair include promoting agribusiness, creating employment opportunities for young people, and strengthening agricultural production in the Adansi area and surrounding regions.
The event assembled a diverse group of participants, including agricultural producers, processors, buyers, financial institutions, and government agencies. MyJoyOnline reported that these stakeholders gathered to explore partnerships aimed at expanding farming businesses and improving overall productivity. The fair was organized under the theme “Building Sustainable Agriculture for Food Security and Economic Growth in Obuasi” and formed part of the activities commemorating the 2026 World Food Day. It also aligns with AngloGold Ashanti’s ten-year socioeconomic development plan, which prioritizes sustainable livelihoods, enterprise development, and local economic growth.
Samuel Pobi, Managing Director of AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi Mine, stated that the fair was crucial for strengthening agriculture and promoting local enterprise. He noted that the company’s support for agriculture is not new, citing ongoing community development interventions that aim to improve processing capacity and income generation. Pobi added that creating opportunities within the agricultural sector could encourage more youth to consider farming as a viable source of income, thereby contributing to improved livelihoods.
Faustilove Appiah Kennin, the Municipal Chief Executive of Obuasi, emphasized that the town cannot rely solely on its mineral resources for sustainable growth. She argued that economic development requires diversifying activities and creating additional sources of employment. During the program, selected farmers and processing groups received agricultural inputs and modern processing equipment to support their operations.
John Dumelo, Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting farmers with necessary resources. He stressed that access to equipment and inputs is essential for farmers to expand their operations and contribute effectively to the growth of Ghana’s agricultural sector. The fair is expected to provide a platform for stakeholders to share ideas and identify ways to make agriculture more attractive to young people.