Kofi Appianin Ennin, an Independent Parliamentary candidate for the Obuasi West constituency, is determined to address longstanding criticisms surrounding the underdevelopment of the mining town of Obuasi, which has a gold mining history dating back to 1897. Often likened to South Africa’s Johannesburg, Obuasi struggles with infrastructure and growth, leading to significant disparities in development between the two towns. During a health walk and campaign launch, Mr. Ennin laid out his comprehensive policies aimed at transforming the community. His agenda, titled “My Roadmap for Fostering Growth, Uplifting Lives, and Building Obuasi Communities for a Brighter Future,” encompasses various critical areas, including sports, health, tourism, infrastructure, and agriculture, signaling a clear commitment to catalyzing much-needed progress in the constituency.
In his vision for sports development, Mr. Ennin aims to revitalize football in Obuasi by providing robust support to the newly established Ashanti Gold F.C. Since the suspension of Ashanti Gold SC by the Ghana Football Association due to match-fixing, the lack of a Premier League team has impacted local sports enthusiasm. Ennin plans to secure a spot in the Division One league for the new club while advocating for the town to receive its fair share of AstroTurf projects. He intends to sponsor local football competitions and revive the Colts League, thereby fostering a stronger sports culture in Obuasi that engages the youth and encourages community participation.
Infrastructure is another crucial element of Mr. Ennin’s campaign as he highlights the urgent need for improved rural feeder roads essential for farmers to transport produce efficiently. His proposed infrastructure plan encompasses constructing vital bridges, modernizing schools, hospitals, and shopping malls, and transforming Obuasi into a modern city. Furthermore, Mr. Ennin’s “Appianin Women Empowerment Scheme” aims to build on his previous support for women traders, including over 2,630 beneficiaries who received interest-free loans. By offering financial assistance and resources to empower women economically, he aspires to elevate their roles in households and the broader community, fostering indirect economic growth.
Mr. Ennin also prioritizes healthcare initiatives within his campaign framework, recognizing the link between community health and prosperity. He has proposed the establishment of a fund dedicated to providing care for children with serious health conditions and emphasized the importance of preventive healthcare. His healthcare agenda includes utilizing advanced, cost-effective health assessment technologies, ensuring access to clean drinking water, and promoting a pollution-free environment. Furthermore, he plans to provide regular training for health workers, enhance transport access for healthcare personnel, and extend free health insurance to senior citizens and disabled individuals, thus aiming for a more inclusive healthcare system in Obuasi.
On the topic of small-scale mining, Mr. Ennin proposed engaging with AngloGold Ashanti to transition abandoned mining sites back to community use. His approach aims to empower local miners by ensuring they receive proper training on safely using tools and establishing a secure working environment. This initiative reflects his understanding of the socio-economic potential embedded in the mining sector while prioritizing safety and responsible practices. By fostering respectful relations between the mining industry and local communities, Ennin seeks to harness the sector’s potential for broader economic benefits.
Education emerged prominently in Mr. Ennin’s campaign, underpinning his belief in its role as a fundamental pillar for future success. He committed to supporting the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) initiative launched by the previous administration, emphasizing its importance in providing education opportunities. Moreover, he pledged continuous training for teachers, promotion of nursing education, and enhancement of cultural education within schools. Ennin also plans to provide competitive scholarships to assist talented students, facilitating their pursuit of education free from financial burdens. His comprehensive approach to development, encompassing sports, infrastructure, healthcare, mining, and education, illustrates a holistic understanding of the issues facing Obuasi and underscores his resolve to drive meaningful change.
At the event, Hon. Edward Ennin, the former Member of Parliament for the Obuasi East constituency and a relative of Kofi Appianin Ennin, rallied behind the independent candidate, urging supporters to back him in the upcoming elections. He underscored the critical need for development within the constituency and reinforced the notion that Kofi Appianin Ennin embodies the vision and capability necessary for driving this development forward. As the community stands on the threshold of potential transformation, Mr. Ennin’s strategic roadmap presents an opportunity for Obuasi to reclaim its stature as a thriving mining town, with robust infrastructure, vibrant communities, and empowered citizens leading the way.
