- Rising malaria cases in Amansie West District, particularly among children under five, have prompted joint intervention by health authorities and Asanko Gold Ghana Limited.
- According to data from the Amansie West District Health Directorate, the district recorded over 36,000 malaria cases at Outpatient Departments (OPD) in 2024, increasing to more than 38,000 cases in 2025.
- The situation among children under five remains concerning, with malaria cases in this category increasing from 8,000 in 2024 to 10,000 in 2025.
Malaria has long been a major public health concern in Ghana, with the country ranking among the top 10 countries with the highest malaria burden globally. The disease is a significant contributor to the country's high infant and child mortality rates, with many cases resulting in severe complications and even death. In recent years, the Ghanaian government has taken steps to combat the spread of malaria, including the implementation of mass bed net distributions and the use of indoor residual spraying to control mosquito populations.
However, despite these efforts, malaria cases continue to rise in many parts of the country, including the Amansie West District. The district's high incidence of malaria has been attributed to the presence of mined pits left uncovered by illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey, which have become breeding grounds for mosquitoes in many communities across the district.
Joint Intervention by Health Authorities and Asanko Gold Ghana Limited
Asanko Gold Ghana Limited, a leading gold mining company operating in the Amansie West District, has joined forces with health authorities to combat the rising malaria cases in the area. The company has been working closely with the Amansie West District Health Directorate to implement measures aimed at reducing the incidence of malaria in the district.
As part of these efforts, the company has been supporting public education campaigns on the causes, prevention, and control of malaria. Health officials have been urging residents 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.
Asanko Gold Ghana Limited has also been distributing insecticide-treated mosquito nets to vulnerable communities, including Senior High School students within the catchment area. This initiative aims to protect young people and reinforce prevention efforts in the district.
Free Health Screening and Distribution of Mosquito Nets
As part of activities to commemorate the 2026 World Malaria Day, Asanko Gold Ghana Limited organised free health screening for residents of Manso Abore and surrounding communities in the Amansie West District. The exercise included malaria testing, blood pressure checks, blood sugar screening, and general medical consultations.
During the event, the company distributed over 2,000 insecticide-treated mosquito nets to Senior High School students within the catchment area. This gesture is aimed at helping to protect young people and reinforce prevention efforts in the district.
Long-term Investments in Healthcare Infrastructure
Asanko Gold Ghana Limited has also been investing in healthcare infrastructure in the district, including the construction of Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds at Tetrem and Krofrom. These compounds aim to bring essential health services closer to the people, improving access to healthcare and strengthening the communities in the district.
The company's General Manager, Justice Fenteng, emphasized that preventing malaria is not only the responsibility of government or institutions but requires collective action, starting from homes and communities. He encouraged residents in Manso and surrounding areas to regularly use mosquito nets, keep their environment clean, seek early testing, and take preventive measures seriously.
Looking Ahead
The joint intervention by health authorities and Asanko Gold Ghana Limited is a positive step towards reducing the incidence of malaria in the Amansie West District. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of the problem, particularly the presence of mined pits left uncovered by illegal mining activities. The government and other stakeholders must work together to find a lasting solution to this problem and ensure that the district is free from malaria.
