AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine is proud to announce its inaugural Business Innovation Challenge, scheduled for 13 November 2025. This groundbreaking initiative, the first of its kind in Ghana’s mining sector, seeks to empower young people in Obuasi and surrounding communities to develop innovative, sustainable business ideas that address local challenges and drive economic diversification.
The Business Innovation Challenge forms part of AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine’s 10-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan (SEDP), a strategic blueprint aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, inclusive growth, and sustainable livelihoods within the Mine’s host communities and the wider Ashanti Region.
Ten finalists will pitch their business proposals before a panel of distinguished judges for a chance to win funding, mentorship, and investor exposure. The initiative is designed to nurture an entrepreneurial mindset among the youth, equipping them with the skills and opportunities to transform ideas into viable enterprises.
“AngloGold Ashanti’s purpose of mining is to empower people and advance societies. Guided by this purpose, we believe the future of our host communities lies in the ideas and innovations of the youth—hence, the Business Innovation Challenge,” said Edmund Oduro Agyei, Community Relations Manager of AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine.
“This Challenge is not only a platform for our youth to showcase their creativity but also an opportunity for us to invest in practical solutions that can drive the local economy forward,” he added.
The Challenge was officially launched on 27 May 2025, starting with 42 participants who underwent extensive training sessions in business development and innovation management. The top 10 finalists will now compete for funding awards and the chance to scale their ideas.
The esteemed panel of judges includes:
•Professor Emeritus Stephen Adei, distinguished economist, administrator, writer, and leadership expert;
•Dr. Rose Mensah-Kutin, gender advocate, journalist, and West Africa Regional Director for ABANTU for Development;
•Nana Aboagye Ohene-Adu, CEO of LEAPAB Company Limited, Founder of LEAP International School Obuasi, and Chairman of the Obuasi Local Contractors Association;
•Mr. Kingsley Kwaku Pinkrah, Founder and President of Success Hub International Institute, dedicated to advancing entrepreneurship and innovation.
The Challenge is being implemented in collaboration with CEDI Ghana, KNUST Obuasi Campus, Absa Bank Ghana, Ghana Enterprises Agency, Obuasi Municipal Assembly, and Obuasi East Municipal Assembly.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
