Health authorities and Asanko Gold Ghana Limited have intensified collaboration to combat a sharp rise in malaria cases, particularly among children under five, amid illegal mining pits turning into mosquito breeding hotspots.
District Health Directorate data reveals over 36,000 malaria cases at outpatient departments in 2024, climbing to more than 38,000 in 2025. While overall trends show some control efforts bearing fruit, cases among under-fives worsened dramatically from 8,000 to 10,000 over the same period.
Officials blame uncovered pits from “galamsey” illegal mining for fueling the outbreak, creating ideal mosquito breeding sites across communities.
Amansie West District Director of Health Services, Pharm. Bernard Badu Bediako, praised Asanko Gold’s support while urging a united front to shift from malaria control to elimination.
“We’ve ramped up public education on causes, prevention, and control,” Bediako said. “Residents must complete full anti-malaria treatment courses; many stop after feeling better on day one. And despite complaints of heat or itching, long-lasting insecticide-treated nets remain essential; they’re far safer than risking severe malaria.”
Marking 2026 World Malaria Day under the theme “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must,” Asanko Gold organized free health screenings in Manso Abore and nearby areas. Services included malaria tests, blood pressure and sugar checks, and medical consultations.
The company also donated over 2,000 treated mosquito nets to senior high school students in the catchment zone, bolstering youth protection.
In a statement read on his behalf by General Manager Justice Fenteng, the firm reaffirmed its broader commitment. “Our investments extend beyond events we’re building CHPS compounds at Tetrem and Krofrom to deliver healthcare closer to communities,” it read.
“Preventing malaria demands collective action from homes, communities, government, and institutions alike,” Fenteng added. “Use nets regularly, keep environments clean, seek early testing, and prioritize prevention.”
Bediako echoed the call, commending Asanko Gold’s role in infrastructure and urging stakeholders to sustain momentum against the disease.
