News Categories: Community

Nkawkaw, December 3, 2024 – The Kwahu West Municipal chapter of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations (GFD) commemorated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with a series of activities aimed at promoting awareness and inclusion. The event brought together PWDs, government officials, and community members to discuss policies, share experiences, and highlight the achievements of the disability community.

The celebration emphasized the importance of ensuring equal access to opportunities for PWDs in all sectors of society. Government representatives reaffirmed their commitment to improving accessibility, implementing policies that protect PWD rights, and providing necessary resources to promote their full participation in social and economic life.

Discussions during the event focused on the challenges PWDs face in education, employment, and public accessibility. Advocacy groups called for stronger enforcement of disability rights laws and more inclusive policies to bridge existing gaps.

The event concluded with a commitment from both local government authorities and disability organizations to work collaboratively in advancing the cause of PWDs. Participants expressed optimism about future initiatives aimed at creating a more inclusive and supportive society.

The celebration not only raised awareness but also reinforced the continuous need for advocacy, policy implementation, and community involvement to achieve a truly inclusive society for all.

Oframase-Nkawkaw, November 8, 2024 – The 40th District Farmers’ Day celebration took place at Oframase-Nkawkaw, bringing together local farmers, stakeholders, government officials, and the community to recognize the crucial role of farmers in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agriculture.

Held under the theme “Building Climate-Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security,” the event underscored the need for innovative farming practices to mitigate the challenges of climate change while maintaining food production and environmental sustainability.

The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Hon. Lawyer Yaw Owusu Addo, welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of Farmers’ Day in acknowledging the tireless efforts of farmers. He highlighted the growing need for climate-smart agricultural practices to ensure long-term sustainability.

The Municipal Agricultural Director, in his keynote address, discussed the vulnerabilities of agriculture to climate change, such as extreme weather, soil degradation, and water scarcity. He urged farmers to adopt drought-resistant crops, improved irrigation methods, and agroforestry to counter these challenges.

The Member of Parliament (MP) for Nkawkaw Constituency, Hon. Joseph Frempong, commended farmers for their dedication and reaffirmed the government’s support through initiatives such as fertilizer subsidies, modern farming equipment, and improved seed varieties. He also pledged continued infrastructure improvements, including better roads and storage facilities to facilitate market access.

A key highlight was the recognition of outstanding farmers excelling in climate-resilient practices, productivity, and community contributions. These awards aim to motivate other farmers to adopt sustainable farming methods.

The event also featured an exhibition showcasing innovative agricultural products and sustainable farming techniques. Farmers and agribusinesses presented organic farming methods, water-efficient irrigation systems, and value-added agroprocessing initiatives, fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration.

Government officials outlined several initiatives to support farmers, including the distribution of climate-resilient seeds, subsidized farming inputs, increased investment in agricultural research and extension services, and training programs on soil conservation, water management, and biodiversity preservation.

The celebration concluded with remarks from the Municipal Chief Executive, reaffirming the government’s commitment to agricultural development. He encouraged continuous collaboration among farmers, policymakers, and private stakeholders to build a resilient and food-secure future.

Overall Best Farmer

The 40th District Farmers’ Day celebration at Oframase-Nkawkaw successfully honored farmers while reinforcing the urgency of adopting climate-resilient agricultural practices. As climate change continues to impact food security, such initiatives remain critical in ensuring a sustainable agricultural future for the district and beyond.

Background
Street foods have raised significant public health concerns due to the increasing incidence of foodborne diseases documented over the past decade. The alarming rate of foodborne diseases in Ghana has prompted authorities to strengthen food safety and hygiene practices. As part of these efforts, food vendors are encouraged to undergo mandatory medical screenings conducted by certified laboratory technicians.

Screening Initiative

To address this concern, the Municipal Assembly, in collaboration with Alpha Homeopathic & Botanic Medical Clinic, organized a medical screening exercise for all food vendors within the Municipality. The exercise was closely supervised by the relevant Unit within the Assembly to ensure compliance and efficiency.

Screening Statistics
During the period under review, a total of 4,876 food and drink vendors participated in the screening exercise. The gender distribution was as follows:
• Males: 397
• Females: 4,479

Screening Results
The screening results were categorized into reactive (positive for certain medical conditions) and non-reactive (negative for the tested conditions). The breakdown is as follows:

Following the mass screening, a mop-up exercise was conducted to ensure full coverage within the Municipality.
Recommendations and Follow-up
The 224 vendors who tested reactive have been advised on the necessary medical steps to take, including treatment and follow-ups. The Municipal Assembly, in collaboration with health officials, will continue to enforce food safety regulations and promote periodic medical screenings to safeguard public health.

Conclusion
This initiative marks a significant step in ensuring that food sold to the public is handled by healthy vendors, ultimately reducing the risk of foodborne diseases within the Municipality. The Municipal Assembly remains committed to public health safety and urges all vendors to prioritize their health for the well-being of consumers.

The Government of Ghana has successfully trained 50 beneficiaries from the Kwahu West Municipal Assembly as part of its ongoing initiative to promote grow-out fish culture in tarpaulin tanks. This training is a key component of a broader program designed to empower individuals and support the development of small-scale fish farming across the municipality.

The training program was meticulously crafted to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful fish farming. Participants learned best practices in fish farming, including effective methods for managing fish health, optimizing growth, and ensuring a sustainable aquaculture environment. Detailed instructions were provided on the setup, maintenance, and operation of tarpaulin tanks to ensure efficient and productive fish culture. Additionally, the training covered best practices for utilizing resources such as fingerlings, feeds, and other materials to maximize fish production and business success.

In addition to the comprehensive training, the government will support the beneficiaries by providing all the necessary resources to start and maintain their fish farming ventures. These resources include tarpaulin tanks, high-quality fingerlings to begin the grow-out process, nutrient-rich feeds to ensure healthy fish development, and other essential materials required to set up and run a small-scale fish farming operation.

This initiative aims to achieve several key objectives, including enhancing local fish production by empowering local entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge needed for successful fish farming. The program also supports economic development by providing beneficiaries with valuable opportunities to establish profitable small-scale businesses, contributing to job creation and economic growth in the Kwahu West Municipal Assembly. Furthermore, the initiative promotes sustainable practices by encouraging environmentally friendly and efficient fish farming methods through the use of tarpaulin tanks.

The trained beneficiaries are now prepared to implement their new skills and resources to start their fish farming businesses, marking a significant milestone in the Government of Ghana’s commitment to developing a robust and sustainable aquaculture sector.

In conclusion, we congratulate the 50 beneficiaries from Kwahu West Municipal Assembly on completing their training and look forward to witnessing the positive impact of their new fish farming ventures. This initiative stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to fostering local entrepreneurship and sustainable development.

On July 18, 2024, the YouStart initiative, a government program aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs, successfully conducted a comprehensive training session at Kowf Hotel in Kwahu West Municipal Assembly. The event brought together 70 eager participants, all of whom were enthusiastic about growing their entrepreneurial skills and building sustainable businesses.

The training session was a key component of YouStart’s broader strategy to provide essential funding and technical support to emerging entrepreneurs. Participants were guided through critical aspects of business development, including business planning and strategy, financial management, technical skills, and networking.

Attendees learned how to craft effective business plans, set achievable goals, and understand market needs. Additionally, they received training on budgeting, financial planning, and securing funding to support the growth of their ventures. The session also introduced participants to leveraging technology and digital tools to enhance business operations, helping them stay competitive in today’s fast-paced market.

The importance of networking and mentorship was emphasized, as participants were given the opportunity to connect with industry experts and gain valuable insights through mentorship opportunities. The practical nature of the training was well-received, with many attendees expressing appreciation for the knowledge and resources provided. Several participants highlighted how the insights gained would positively impact their entrepreneurial journeys, helping them navigate challenges and seize new opportunities.

The YouStart initiative continues its mission to support youth entrepreneurship, with similar training sessions planned throughout the country. By fostering innovation, economic growth, and job creation, YouStart aims to empower young entrepreneurs and contribute to the development of the local economy.

This training session in Kwahu West marks another significant step toward building a vibrant and resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem among the youth in Ghana.

Hon. Lawyer Yaw Owusu Addo (MCE), Mr. Peter Tetteh Kwabla (MCD), Mr. Francis Dogbese (Agric. Director), Hon. Bamfo (Presiding Member), Alhaji Mohammed Hamidu (NADMO Director), and Mr. Opoku Agyemang (Forestry Commission), among other dignitaries, joined the Chief and people of Apradang on Friday, June 7, 2024, to plant various tree seedlings as part of the 2024 Green Ghana Day under the theme “Growing for a Greener Tomorrow.”

The tree planting exercise, part of the activities to commemorate this year’s Green Ghana Day, aims to protect the environment and complement the Government’s aggressive afforestation and reforestation program designed to restore the country’s vegetation cover.

In his welcome address, Alhaji Mohammed Hamidu (NADMO Director) lauded Green Ghana Day, an initiative introduced in 2021 by President Nana Akufo-Addo. This initiative aims to create enhanced national awareness that will necessitate collective action toward restoring degraded landscapes in the country. He mentioned that a minimum of five thousand tree seedlings had been provided by the Forestry Commission to be planted across farmlands, Galamsey-degraded lands, roadsides, and school parks in the municipality.

Giving the keynote address, Hon. Lawyer Yaw Owusu Addo underscored the need for inhabitants to cultivate the habit of tree planting to help improve the vegetative cover and combat the effects of greenhouse gases, while providing oxygen and shade. He emphasized that sustained efforts at planting trees would contribute significantly to restoring degraded landscapes in the municipality and aid the global attempt to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change.

The launch was attended by service commanders and officers from the Police, Fire, Immigration, NADMO, Forestry Commission, KWMA, as well as teachers, pupils, elders, community members from Apradang, and the media. Nana Somuah Apredu II (Apradanghene) planted the first tree seedling at Apradang M/A School Park to officially launch Green Ghana Day in the municipality.

Species of tree seedlings planted included Cedrella, Cassia, Akye, Ofram, Mahogany, Millettia, Teak, and Gmelina.

On May 29, 2024, the Kwahu West Municipal Assembly successfully organized a one-day capacity building program for proprietors and proprietresses of Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centers. The initiative aimed to enhance their understanding of operational standards and regulatory frameworks, ensuring the effective management of these centers.

The primary objectives of the program were to educate ECD center owners on current operational standards, enhance their knowledge of best practices in early childhood education, and foster collaboration among them. The Municipal Education Director opened the event, stressing the importance of adhering to operational standards for the benefit of young learners.

Participants were guided through several key areas, including understanding operational standards such as health and safety regulations, staff qualifications, and infrastructural requirements. They were also introduced to the legal frameworks governing ECD centers, including licensing procedures and compliance obligations. Practical examples and case studies were presented to help center owners navigate these regulations.

Best practices in early childhood education were another focus of the program, with discussions on teaching strategies, curriculum development, and child development principles. Emphasis was placed on creating inclusive learning environments. An interactive workshop allowed participants to engage in discussions and role-playing activities, promoting problem-solving and the sharing of experiences.

The program concluded with a Q&A session, providing participants an opportunity to address specific concerns and seek expert advice, followed by a networking session to encourage collaboration among ECD centers.

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many appreciating the practical information provided, the interactive nature of the workshops, and the chance to network with peers. The program was a significant step in strengthening the operational knowledge of ECD center proprietors in Kwahu West, contributing to the continuous improvement of early childhood education in the region.

The Municipal Assembly extends its gratitude to all participants, presenters, and organizers for their contributions to the success of the program. Future initiatives are anticipated to further support early childhood development in the municipality.

On March 26, 2024, the Kwahu West Municipal Assembly successfully distributed a range of income-generating items to 28 individuals with disabilities (PWDs). This important event was graced by the presence of the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), who played a key role in both the distribution and addressing the beneficiaries.

In his speech, the MCE emphasized the Assembly’s commitment to supporting the community, especially individuals with disabilities, by providing them with tools to enhance their economic independence. He underscored the importance of these items in fostering self-reliance and improving the quality of life for the beneficiaries.

The event was also attended by the Municipal Coordinating Director, the Presiding Member, and several dedicated staff members of the Kwahu West Municipal Assembly. Their presence underscored the collaborative effort behind this initiative.

The items distributed included:
– Deep Freezers
– Double Door Fridges
– Mobile Phone Accessories
– Second-Hand Clothes
– Fresh Tomatoes
– Provisions Start-ups
– Industrial Knitting Machines
– Industrial Sewing Machines
– Fufu Pounding Machines

These items were chosen to cater to a variety of needs and are intended to empower the recipients to engage in productive activities, thereby improving their financial stability and overall well-being.

The Kwahu West Municipal Assembly remains committed to supporting its community members and looks forward to continuing such impactful initiatives in the future.

The Government of Ghana is currently conducting the Integrated Business Establishment Survey (IBES) in Kwahu West, marking a significant step in understanding and improving the business landscape across the municipality. This survey is part of a broader economic census that encompasses all economic sectors in Ghana, including agriculture, industry, and services.

The primary goal of IBES is to collect accurate and up-to-date information on businesses operating within the municipality. This data is crucial for understanding the diversity of sectors, employment trends, revenue streams, and geographic distribution of businesses. The information gathered will enable the government to develop targeted policies and initiatives aimed at supporting economic growth and prosperity.

The IBES initiative is structured in two phases. The first phase, IBES I, involves a comprehensive census of all businesses in the municipality, regardless of size, ownership type, or whether they operate formally or informally. The data collected during this phase will contribute to the creation of an updated business register for Ghana, serving as a sampling frame for future surveys.

The second phase, IBES II, will focus on a detailed examination of the operational activities of businesses across all sectors of the economy. This phase aims to provide deeper insights into the challenges and opportunities facing businesses, allowing for more informed decision-making and policy development.

As part of the survey, 71 field officers underwent extensive training in Koforidua in preparation for the data collection process. The field activities are scheduled to commence on January 16, 2024, and are expected to last for approximately seven weeks. During this period, various types of businesses, including mobile businesses, open space businesses, and established enterprises, will be enumerated.

It is anticipated that a total of 11,702 establishment businesses, 3,730 open space businesses, and 268 mobile businesses will be surveyed. The data collection process involves a combination of online surveys, telephone interviews, and field visits to business establishments, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the business environment in the municipality.

Once completed, the findings from the IBES will provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by businesses in Kwahu West. Despite economic fluctuations, early indications suggest that the majority of businesses are experiencing stable or increasing employment levels. However, concerns about future hiring due to economic uncertainties remain. Revenue trends are also being closely monitored, with businesses reporting varying levels of growth or decline influenced by competition and shifting consumer preferences.

The IBES initiative is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of business in Kwahu West. By implementing the recommended strategies derived from the survey, local authorities can foster a conducive business environment that promotes growth, innovation, and economic development.

The Government of Ghana extends its gratitude to all businesses and stakeholders participating in the IBES initiative. Their cooperation and support are essential in building a stronger and more vibrant business ecosystem that fosters entrepreneurship and economic prosperity. As the survey progresses, updates and findings will be shared to keep the public informed about the state of the business landscape in Kwahu West.

The 39th National Farmers’ Day, 2023, was celebrated with great fervor and success in the picturesque community of Asaasefufuom. The event, held under the theme “Delivering Smart Solutions for Sustainable Food Security and Resilience,” brought together farmers, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the municipality to honor and appreciate the hard work and dedication of those in the agricultural sector.

The celebration, hosted in Asaasefufuom, a community known for its rich agricultural heritage, aimed to highlight the importance of adopting innovative and sustainable practices for ensuring food security and building resilience in the face of emerging challenges.

One of the highlights of the event was the recognition and awarding of 13 outstanding value chain actors who have made significant contributions to the agricultural sector. Among the awardees, nine were male and four were female, showcasing a commendable gender balance in the recognition of excellence.

The awards were presented to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and success across various segments of the agricultural value chain. These value chain actors, ranging from farmers to agribusiness entrepreneurs, were acknowledged for their pivotal roles in enhancing productivity, promoting sustainability, and contributing to the overall development of the agricultural sector.

The Municipality’s commitment to fostering gender inclusivity in agriculture was particularly evident in the recognition of four accomplished female farmers. Their achievements underscore the vital role that women play in agriculture and highlight the need for empowering and supporting women in the sector.

Government officials, agricultural experts, and representatives from various organizations participated in these sessions, contributing to the exchange of knowledge and ideas for the continuous improvement of the agricultural sector.

Asaasefufuom community’s success in hosting the 39th National Farmers’ Day reflects the collective commitment to advancing agriculture, ensuring food security, and promoting sustainability. The event not only celebrated the hardworking farmers but also served as a catalyst for dialogue and collaboration, setting the stage for future innovations in the agricultural landscape.