AngloGold Ashanti supports Obuasi Community Trust Fund with over GH₵20m

Before this agreement, AGA contributed one percent of its profit after tax to the fund. This contribution was the main funding source for the OCTF, established in 2012.

The trust fund supports sustainable development in communities where AngloGold Ashanti operates. It makes strategic investments in economic and social development.

At a graduation ceremony for 127 artisans, Arnold Ackon spoke about the OCTF's role. He is the Acting Programmes Manager of the OCTF. He emphasized diversifying and sustaining Obuasi’s local economy.

“Our mission at OCTF is to provide alternative livelihoods,” he said. “We want to create pathways for growth beyond mining.”

Edmund Oduro Agyei, Community Relations Manager for AngloGold Ashanti Ghana, welcomed attendees. He shared insights into the Skills Development Programme.

He stated that AngloGold Ashanti aims to empower people and advance societies. One way they do this is through a 10-year Social and Economic Development Plan (SEDP). This plan focuses on diversifying Obuasi’s local economy.

“The Skills Development and Certification Programme is key to this plan,” he noted. They also established an Enterprise and Skills Development Centre (ESDC) at Anyinam. This center trains local entrepreneurs and artisans to gain a competitive edge.

Mr. Agyei mentioned their annual apprenticeship program trains at least 100 youths each year from host communities. Before launching the programme, they conducted a gap analysis among local artisans.

The analysis showed many lacked certifications to validate their skills. This hindered their ability to compete for contracts. Poor business management skills also contributed to low incomes in the community.

To address these issues, the Skills Development and Certification Programme offers technical training. Participants can prepare for certification exams with either NVTI or the Energy Commission based on their trade.

The 127 graduates were selected through a community leadership validation system. They completed training in welding, electricals, leather work, and fashion design at ESDC with support from the Obuasi Community Trust Fund.

All graduating artisans received start-up equipment funded by GIZ to begin their entrepreneurial journey.