Asanko Gold, health authorities intensify fight against malaria in Amansie West
Asanko Gold Ghana Limited has intensified its collaboration with health authorities to tackle rising malaria cases, particularly among children under five, in the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region.
Data from the Amansie West District Health Directorate of the Ghana Health Service show that the district recorded more than 36,000 malaria cases at outpatient departments in 2024. The figure rose to over 38,000 in 2025, reflecting an increase in absolute numbers.
Despite broader gains in awareness and control efforts, the situation among children under five remains a concern, with cases increasing from 8,000 in 2024 to 10,000 in 2025.
Health officials have attributed the trend largely to abandoned mining pits, often left uncovered through illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey, which have become breeding grounds for mosquitoes across affected communities.
To mark World Malaria Day 2026, Asanko Gold Ghana Limited organised a free health screening exercise for residents of Manso Abore and surrounding communities. The event was held on the theme: “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must.”
The outreach included malaria testing, blood pressure checks, blood sugar screening and general medical consultations. The company also distributed more than 2,000 insecticide-treated mosquito nets to senior high school students within the catchment area to strengthen prevention efforts.
Commitment beyond events
In a speech read on his behalf, the General Manager of Asanko Gold Ghana Limited, Justice Fenteng, said the company’s commitment extended beyond periodic interventions, highlighting ongoing investments in healthcare infrastructure.
“These are long-term investments aimed at improving access to healthcare and strengthening our communities,” he stated.
He stressed that malaria prevention required collective responsibility, urging residents to adopt practical measures such as regular use of mosquito nets, maintaining clean surroundings, and seeking early testing and treatment.
Call for collective action
The Amansie West District Director of Health Services, Bernard Badu Bediako, also called for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to eliminate malaria in the district. He commended the mining firm for its continued support in the fight against the disease.
He noted that public education had been intensified, with a renewed focus on elimination rather than control.
“Residents are being urged to complete their full course of anti-malaria medication, as many tend to stop treatment after feeling better on the first day. The use of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets is also being strongly encouraged, despite concerns from some users about discomfort such as heat and itching,” he said.
