Anglogold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, in a quest to reduce the unemployment rate in its catchment of operation, has empowered over 120 artisans with entrepreneurial skills to boost their productivity.

The company in partnership with AGA-Obuasi Community Trust Fund, National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme for illegal miners (NAELP), and the GIZ- Invest for Jobs Programme supported the artisans with start-up kits after undergoing technical and vocational training.

Under a fully-sponsored training, 127 artisans were equipped with skills at Mac Partners Training Institute and Enterprise and Skills Development Centre (ESDC).

The beneficiaries were trained in fashion and design, welding and fabrication, electronics, and electricals.

At a colorful ceremony held in Obuasi, the artisans, together with their families, commended AngloGold Ashanti and partners for preparing them to take off to become successful entrepreneurs.

Speaking at the event, Community Relations Manager of AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, Edmund Oduro Agyei, indicated that the initiative, adopted through the Development Certification Programme (SDCP), is part of the company’s 10-year socioeconomic development plan for its host communities.

The project follows a needs/gap assessment conducted amongst artisans in Obuasi which revealed most of them lacked requisite certifications to validate their skills.

This situation, Mr. Oduro Agyei emphasized, prevented such individuals from partaking in competitive/formal contracts and improving their capacity.

“Furthermore, the needs/gap analysis revealed that the artisans do not apply effective business management practices, thereby contributing to low levels in their income. While these artisans have not been certified, they are already working within our communities, a situation that poses community safety risks,” he said.

Mr. Oduro commended the GIZ and NAELP for assisting in equipping the artisans with tools to properly set up.

He impressed upon AGA’s commitment to empower residents with the requisite skills to become competitive on the job market and boost productivity.

“I charge you to make a positive impact in your communities with the training and tools you have acquired,” he advised the participants.

National Coordinator for the National Alternative Employment And Livelihood Program(NAELP), Frank Asare indicated that the initiative provided new opportunities which could lead to sustainable livelihoods and economic prosperity.

Team Lead of Invest for Jobs at GIZ Ghana, John Duti, also noted that the completion of the trainings and the provision of essential tools to artisans and other small enterprises are critical steps to foster long-term economic empowerment.

“By enhancing technical skills, improving access to essential resources, and strengthening business management, this initiative supports sustainable employment creation and enterprise growth beyond the mining sector in Obuasi,” he said.

He continued: "With these resources, artisans can now build sustainable livelihoods and make meaningful contributions to their communities”.