The forum, held in Goaso under the theme “Beyond Royalties: How Mining Communities Can Build Local Industries Around the Mine,” brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, traditional leaders, mining companies, contractors and students.

Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber, Kenneth Ashigbey, told Adom News that royalties received by mining communities have not delivered the expected development outcomes, stressing the need for a shift in approach.

According to him, communities must begin to identify and take advantage of opportunities within the mining value chain to establish local industries, create jobs and generate additional income.

He urged stakeholders, particularly in areas where Newmont Gold Ghana operates, including Asutifi North and Tano North, to think beyond royalties and invest in long-term economic ventures.

The forum also served as a platform for participants to exchange ideas on how to maximise the benefits of mining through collaboration and innovation.

Ahafo Regional Minister, Charity Gardiner, and President of the Ahafo Regional House of Chiefs, Barima Twereko Ampem III, commended the Chamber for the initiative, noting that it has highlighted untapped opportunities within the mining sector.

They further called on the Chamber to support efforts to tackle illegal mining activities within mining concessions, particularly in areas operated by Newmont Ahafo Mines.

The forum forms part of broader efforts to promote inclusive growth and ensure that mining contributes meaningfully to community development.

Speaking to Adom News at Goaso during a free medical screening organised by Ahafoman Senior High Technical School, he stressed that certain health conditions can significantly affect students’ studies if left untreated.

He identified conditions such as high blood pressure, hepatitis B and C, and high glucose levels as major concerns, noting that early detection through regular screening is critical.

Mr Yakubu therefore called on school authorities to institutionalise periodic health screening programmes to improve students’ wellbeing.

Students who benefited from the exercise commended the school’s management for incorporating the screening into their SRC Week celebrations.

They also appealed for sustained collaboration between schools and health facilities to ensure regular health checks and access to professional medical advice.

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The buyers explained that the failure to release funds to cocoa buying companies has left them unable to pay farmers, exposing them to harassment and threats from disgruntled producers.

Speaking during an engagement with the Minority Caucus in Parliament, Kwadwo Nsiah and Seth Fosu Yeboah told Adom News that they are living in fear as tensions with farmers continue to escalate.

They also refuted claims that the government has released funds to settle arrears, challenging authorities to name the companies that have received any payments.

Meanwhile, cocoa farmer Kwame Adu from Asutifi North revealed that many farmers have halted harvesting due to the lack of buyers, leaving bags of cocoa unsold at home. He warned that the situation is discouraging cocoa farming in the area and could negatively affect production if urgent action is not taken.

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The Medical Superintendent of the hospital, Dr James Ankoma, told Adom News that the intervention formed part of a free surgical outreach organised by the West African College of Physicians and Surgeons in the region.

He said a team of specialist surgeons drawn from within and outside the region was assembled for the exercise, during which 72 patients with conditions including hernia, goitre, fibroid, uterine and other gynaecological cases underwent successful surgeries.

Dr Ankoma noted that the expertise of the medical team ensured all beneficiaries received safe and effective treatment, adding that the patients have since been discharged and are responding well to post-surgery reviews.

He commended the Ahafo Regional Minister, Charity Gardiner, for facilitating the outreach by engaging the West African College of Physicians and Surgeons to extend the initiative to the region.

Dr Ankoma described the five-day exercise as timely, saying it helped address several critical health conditions and ultimately saved many lives.

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Speaking at Acherensua during an inspection of the ongoing works, Alhaji Dauda said the people of Ahafo would forever appreciate the President for addressing what he described as one of the region’s most critical infrastructure challenges.

He noted that despite Ahafo’s significant contribution to the national economy through gold, cocoa, and timber, the road remained in a deplorable state for eight years under the previous NPP administration, causing untold hardship to commuters and traders.

According to the MP, the decision by residents to vote out the NPP and bring the NDC back to power is already yielding results, with the once-dilapidated road now being asphalted to ease transportation challenges.

The Ahafo Regional Minister, Charity Gardiner, and the District Chief Executive for Asutifi South, Benjamin Assabil Donkor, also told Adom News that they were grateful to President Mahama for honouring his campaign promise to the chiefs and people of the region.

They added that the project is a clear demonstration of the President’s commitment to fulfilling development promises and improving the lives of people in Ahafo.

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Speaking to Adom News in Goaso, Ahafo Regional Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Immigration (DCOI) Augustus Acheampong, said the exercise was conducted smoothly without any disruptions or actions that could tarnish the Service’s reputation.

He explained that effective measures at the four screening centres—Goaso, Kenyasi, and Duayaw Nkwanta—ensured the process, held over two days in morning and afternoon sessions, ran efficiently.

“The Service provided canopies, chairs, water, and soft drinks for applicants, while strict crowd control measures prevented overcrowding at the centres,” DCOI Acheampong noted.

He advised applicants to adequately prepare for the next stage of the recruitment process, noting that the examination could take various forms.

Some applicants, including Sabato Samuel and Brago Angela, praised the GIS for its professionalism and for creating a calm, stress-free environment throughout the screening. They expressed confidence in qualifying for the next stage and readiness for the upcoming examination.

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Alhaji Unus made the remarks in Goaso while hosting a group of imams for special prayers for the nation.

Speaking to Adom News, he said the return of President John Dramani Mahama has already brought some level of development to the region.

He cited ongoing works on the Tepa–Mabang–Goaso highway, the commissioning of a passport application centre, and the construction of classroom blocks for selected Islamic schools as notable projects currently underway.

According to the Deputy Chief Imam, information available to him indicates that several more projects have been lined up for the region this year to improve residents’ living standards and address challenges they have endured for years.

He commended the Regional Minister, Members of Parliament, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders for their efforts to ensure that Ahafo receives its fair share of national development.

Alhaji Unus also urged national leaders to prioritise the welfare of the people, reminding them that Allah will judge leaders based on their actions and commitment to development.

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The first resident in the region to receive a passport from the Goaso office, Magdalene Kyeremeh, told Adom News that residents should avoid bypassing the facility by travelling to Sunyani, Kumasi, or Accra to process their passports.

According to her, she received her passport just two days after submitting her application, demonstrating the efficiency and convenience of the Goaso office.

She stressed that the perception that acquiring a passport is difficult is unfounded and encouraged residents who require the service to patronise the local office.

Madam Kyeremeh warned that failure to utilise the facility could lead to its eventual collapse, urging residents to support and sustain the passport office by making full use of its services.

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He made the call while addressing congregants of the Assemblies of God Church – Victory Centre in Goaso during a 31st Night Service.

DCOP Annor revealed that the region recorded several murder and armed robbery cases in 2025, creating fear and panic in some communities. However, he noted that the timely provision of credible information by residents enabled the police to arrest all suspects involved, particularly in the murder cases, and have them put before the courts.

He assured residents that the police will protect the identity of informants, stressing that confidentiality remains a top priority. He therefore encouraged the public to continue providing reliable information to help flush out criminals and ensure the safety and security of the region.

Meanwhile, speaking to Adom News on expectations for 2026, the Head Pastor of the Assemblies of God Church – Victory Centre, Goaso, Reverend Johnson Nuako Nyametumi, appealed to government to intensify development efforts in the Ahafo Region, especially in the regional capital.

He said the region continues to lag behind in development due to poor road networks, the absence of a university and the lack of a regional hospital, among other challenges. Reverend Nyametumi therefore called on political leaders in the region to step up their lobbying efforts to attract more development for the benefit of the people.

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The presentation took place in Goaso, where each beneficiary received five fowls, feed and other start-up materials. Speaking to Adom News, the Chief Executive Officer of Ketewa Hub, Felicia Serwaa, explained that the organisation is training several women in poultry farming across the region, with the 12 beneficiaries selected based on recommendations from facilitators to kick-start the programme.

According to her, the project, supported by Social Enterprise Ghana and the World University Service of Canada (WUSC), aims to provide comprehensive poultry farming training and start-up resources for young people aged 18 to 35, particularly women, as part of efforts to reduce poverty.

Some beneficiaries, including Blessing Anobah from Goaso and Mariam Dramani from Kwapong, expressed gratitude for the support in separate interviews with Adom News. They pledged to apply the knowledge gained from the training to ensure the success of their poultry farms.

They added that they have been assured additional fowls will be provided if they manage the initial stock well, motivating them to work hard and make the project a success.

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The beneficiary schools include Goaso Islamic Basic School, Nana Bosomprah M/A Basic School, Mim Zion Basic School, Ayomso R/C Basic School, Nkaseim D/A Basic School, and Woramumuso D/A Basic School.

Speaking to Adom News after the presentation, Chief Executive Officer of Clean Heart Entertainment, Muniru Salifu, said the gesture was prompted by the challenges faced by pupils who lack basic learning materials due to their parents’ financial constraints.

“Some pupils struggle to access essential school items, which negatively affects academic work. We felt it was necessary to step in and provide support to enhance their studies,” he explained.

Meanwhile, the Headteacher of Woramumuso D/A Basic School, Salifu Awuni, expressed gratitude to Clean Heart Entertainment, noting that many pupils in the area come from deprived communities where parents struggle to provide exercise books, pens, and other essentials.

He added that teachers often use their own resources to support needy pupils and said the donation has come at a crucial time for both students and teachers.

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At a sensitization programme held in Goaso, Deputy Chief Executive Officer in charge of Services, Foster Asante Esq., told Adom News that the exercise aims to educate stakeholders on the processes involved and the significance of the new system.

He explained that the revised registration framework is designed to enhance vehicle security and help curb the rising cases of vehicular offences in the country.

Mr. Asante expressed satisfaction with the questions and suggestions raised by participants, which included driver unions, garages, and the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), noting that their input will help ensure a smooth and widely accepted rollout.

Some stakeholders, including Asana Marshal and Donkor Emmanuel, told Adom News that the explanations provided convinced them of the system’s benefits. They commended the DVLA and pledged their full support for its implementation.

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Speaking during the second edition of the Mpuntuo Festival, a fundraising event for the construction of university facilities, Nana Dr. Yaw Agyei II said the pursuit of both a district and a university is long overdue.

He rejected claims by the Member of Parliament for Asunafo North, Haruna Mohammed, who stated that the law allows Mim to be considered for district status only in 2030. The chief insisted that Mim deserves immediate attention, stressing that successive governments have failed the community on these critical development demands.

He called on President John Dramani Mahama to prioritize their request and ensure that Mim receives both a district and a university without further delay.

Meanwhile, Armstrong Kusi, founder of 7SM, told journalists that the current size of the Asunafo North Municipality makes it difficult for Mim to get its fair share of development projects.

He noted that for more than 31 years, the chiefs and people of Mim have been advocating for a district and a university, appealing to the President and all relevant authorities to finally address their longstanding concerns.

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Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Hwidiem, Regional Health Director Dr. Akosua Owusu-Sarpong revealed that the cases were recorded in the Asunafo North and Asunafo South districts.

She commended health workers for their swift response and effective management, which ensured the patients’ recovery.

Dr. Owusu-Sarpong assured the public that there is no cause for fear or panic, noting that thorough contact tracing was carried out to protect families and communities.

She, however, urged residents to remain vigilant and seek immediate medical attention if they notice symptoms such as rashes, fever, sore throat, headache, back pain, low energy, muscle aches, or swollen lymph nodes.

“Early reporting is key to saving lives. Anyone who develops these symptoms should quickly visit the nearest health facility,” she advised.

Source: Sammy Asare

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The beneficiary facilities include Goaso Municipal Hospital, Mehame CHPS Compound, Nkaseim Health Centre, Atronie Health Centre, Kenyasi District Hospital, and Sunyani Municipal Hospital.

The donation was made during a brief ceremony held in Goaso.

Speaking to Adom News, Director of Social Performance at Newmont Africa, Joseph Danso, said the company identified critical gaps in medical equipment at several health facilities, which hampered the delivery of quality care to residents.

“In response, we partnered with Project C.U.R.E. to provide the necessary support. Health is wealth, and as part of our corporate social responsibility, we are committed to improving healthcare in the Ahafo and Bono regions,” he stated.

Ahafo Regional Minister, Charity Gardiner, and Regional Health Director, Dr. Akosua Owusu-Sarpong, expressed their gratitude to Newmont for the intervention.

They noted that the supplies would significantly enhance service delivery and pledged to ensure proper maintenance and effective use of the items.

Source: Sammy Asare

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According to her, MMDCEs are ambassadors of the President’s programmes and policies at the local level, and their performance—whether successful or flawed—impacts both the government and the political party.

Speaking at a ceremony to swear in confirmed MMDCEs on Thursday in Goaso, Charity Ghardinar urged the appointees to align themselves with the development agenda of President John Mahama to improve the living conditions of residents.

All six (6) presidential nominees were sworn in as Municipal and District Chief Executives after receiving overwhelming endorsement from their respective local assemblies.

The appointees are:

• Dauda Hafiz Dabell, District Chief Executive for Asutifi North

• Benjamin Donkor Assabil, District Chief Executive for Asutifi South

• Sampson Pius Opoku, Municipal Chief Executive for Tano North

• Emmanuel Kwame Frimpong, Municipal Chief Executive for Tano South

• Joseph Yinka, District Chief Executive for Asunafo South

• Benjamin Akparibo, Municipal Chief Executive for Asunafo North

President John Mahama, in accordance with Article 243 of the 1992 Constitution and the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936) as amended by the Local Governance Act, 2017, nominated them to serve as MMDCEs.

In a letter dated March 23, 2025, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Armed Ibrahim, on behalf of the President, urged all MMDCE nominees to execute their mandates with humility, respect, and commitment.

The Regional Minister also expressed gratitude to traditional authorities in the Ahafo region for their continued support and called for their guidance. “I and my six gallant men are available for engagement and collaboration,” she stated.

Dauda Hafiz Dabell, the DCE for Asutifi North, reaffirmed his commitment to improving key sectors in his district, including economic empowerment, community road infrastructure, health, water and sanitation, and rural development.

Benjamin Donkor Assabil, the DCE for Asutifi South, also encouraged his fellow appointees to prioritise the well-being of grassroots members of the NDC to ensure harmony within the party.

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At an event held in Goaso, where young people showcased their creative business concepts, Kofi Sam Foster, CEO of Digital Foundation, noted the rising youth unemployment in the region.

He explained that the government, in partnership with private organizations, is working to train individuals aged 18 to 35 to enhance their entrepreneurial skills and refine their business ideas.

“The training will equip participants with the necessary knowledge and open doors for them in the job market. With the financial support provided, they will also be able to employ others, thereby reducing unemployment,” he stated.

Loice Awotwe, the Programs Manager, elaborated on the progress made under the Young African Innovators initiative in the Ahafo Region, emphasizing the program’s impact on nurturing entrepreneurial talent and creating opportunities for the youth.

Source: Sammy Asare

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The preliminary results showcased a diverse field of candidates, with some notable candidates scoring zero in this stage of the process.

Notably, Joe Gartey, Kwadwo Poku, Francis Addai-Nimoh, Konadu Apraku, and Kwadwo Poku all scored zero.

Kennedy Agyapong secured 10 votes while Alan Kyeremateng and Dr Akoto Afriyie also received support with 3 and 2 votes respectively

Kwabena Agyapong and Boakye Agyarko each received one vote, signifying their presence in the contest and their aspirations for the party’s nomination.

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The suspects, he noted include six males and two females.

Briefing the media in Ahafo Goaso, the FDA Senior Regulatory Officer, Daniel Nti said the team visited 14 Over The Counter shops and one pharmacy in Mim and Kasapiin all in the Asunafo North Municipality.

According to him, unlicensed drugs were found in the shops of the suspects which violates the laws of the FDA.

Also, Mr Nti said none of the chemical shops in question have the license to sell tramadol but large quantities of tramadol were retrieved.

He has since warned the chemical shops and pharmacies in Ahafo to desist from keeping and selling unapproved drugs.

Mr. Nti added that, FDA supported by the Police have mapped up a series of strategies to clamp down on chemical shops involved in such acts.

Meanwhile, the Ahafo Regional Deputy Police Commander, DCOP David Eklu also told the media that the suspects are currently in custody, assisting with investigations.

He said they will soon be put before court for trial.

DCOP Eklu said the police is ever ready to partner FDA to flash out chemical sellers who deal with unregistered drugs to ensure sanity.

Speaking to Adom News‘ Sammy Asare, women in areas like Goaso, Mim, Hwidiem, Kenyasi among others, explained that the rate at which prices of wigs sold at shops in the region have increased is alarming.

This development is compelling them to cut their hair as part of their grooming for the Christmas and New year festivities.

“Previously, one could buy two, three, four of the wigs for one hairstyle but now, the prices are so high that one can hardly afford just one wig,” one lady said.

According to the worried women, currently, the wigs are no longer affordable.

According to them, shop attendants are not ready to reduce prices because the wigs have fixed prices attached.

“We can no longer afford the wigs, so what I intend to do is to trim it and dye it. The retailers are now buying them from wholesale at the cost they [retailers] used to sell them to us. So when they come, they also sell them to us at a higher cost.

“They have price tags already placed on them and if you ask for a reduction, what they tell you is that there’s nothing they can do about it since it’s a fixed price,” one of the women said.

A shop attendant named Sandra, responding to the concerns of the women, stated that they are not to blame for the price hikes.

She clarified that traveling to Accra, Kumasi, Sunyani and other areas for wigs and other hair products is costly and as businesswomen, they factor all these into the pricing of the items.

She further mentioned that business is slow ahead of the festivities due to the supposed high prices which aren’t their fault. However, she hopes that business would boom as the days go by because currently, they are recording very low sales.

“I haven’t been able to hit my target for this year. I haven’t even made up for what I made last year, so I’m very worried. When the customers come and you mention the prices, they complain about the prices being high.

“But there’s nothing we can do about the situation since the prices at the wholesale are very high. We also have to factor the cost of transportation and other things into it. So we have no choice but to add a little to the wholesale prices,” she said.

“We are hoping that things get better between today and tomorrow otherwise, the market is very slow,” she added.