Asanko Gold Ghana Limited has begun the second phase of its Community Agricultural Support Programme (CASP), targeting 80 smallholder farmers in 12 communities within the Amansie West and Amansie South districts of the Ashanti Region. The initiative aims to boost agricultural productivity, strengthen food security and help farmers cope with rising input costs, shifting rainfall patterns and limited access to extension services.
Isaac Kwakye, Social Responsibility Manager at Asanko Gold, said the programme was designed to strengthen agriculture and support livelihoods in the company’s host communities. He added that a mix of farming inputs, technical support and improved practices could increase production and improve food availability locally.
Under the programme, each farmer cultivating at least one acre will receive weed‑control inputs, Wellington boots, a raincoat, a cutlass and a knapsack sprayer. The items were chosen to aid land preparation, weed management and safer working conditions. Farmers will also receive practical training in climate‑resilient farming methods, including farm planning, responsible input use and adapting to changing rainfall.
Justice Fenteng, General Manager of Asanko Gold, noted that agriculture remains a key source of food and income for households in the host communities, yet farmers still face high input costs and limited technical support. He said the intervention would not only provide equipment but also equip farmers with the knowledge to use them effectively.
Amansie South District Assistant Director of Agriculture Esther Afoakwa welcomed the initiative, citing illegal mining as a factor driving young people away from farming. She said the support would help farmers improve activities and strengthen household livelihoods.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude, with one farmer saying, "We are grateful to Asanko for the support. It will help us improve our farming activities, and we hope the company will continue to support farmers in our communities."
As the programme rolls out, Asanko Gold will continue to provide extension services to beneficiaries from the first phase while bringing new farmers onto the initiative.
