The Amansie South District Assembly has inaugurated an oil palm extraction factory for the people of Mem.

The facility, the first of its kind in the district, will enhance palm oil production, which is the main occupation of the people in the area. It is expected to create jobs and improve livelihoods, especially for women in the community.

Clement Opoku Gyamfi, the District Chief Executive (DCE), speaking at the ceremony, said the facility had the potential to transform the local palm oil sector.

“This facility is the first of its kind in Amansie South, and I encourage everyone involved to maintain it properly so that it can continue to serve its intended purpose of boosting palm oil production,” he said.

Mr. Opoku Gyamfi commended Nana Opiah Mensah, the former Wirempehene of Manso Mem, for his generosity in providing the land for the construction of the facility.

He said the chief’s donation of his farmland played a vital role in making the facility a reality.

“His contribution to this project is invaluable, and we are truly grateful for his support,” the DCE said.

Additionally, the DCE praised the Rural Enterprises Agency (REA) for its support in supplying the necessary machinery to run the facility.

He noted that the entire project was funded through stool land revenue, highlighting the district’s commitment to using local resources to fund initiatives that benefit the community.

The facility is equipped with modern machinery and essential amenities such as washrooms, toilets, a changing room, and a stable power supply to ensure smooth and efficient operations.

Mr. Opoku Gyamfi emphasized that the facility would help produce high-quality palm oil, palm kernels, and other palm-based products for the Ashanti Region and the country.

“This facility will position Mem as a key producer of quality palm oil in the region, just as Nkawkaw is known for its premium tiger nuts,” he said.

He urged local farmers to take full advantage of the economic transformation policies of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to add value to their palm oil production and meet international export standards.

“By doing so, our farmers can access international markets and contribute to the district’s economic development,” he added.

Nana Kwantwi Ampomah, Chief of Ankam and representative of Otumfuo Werempehene, expressed deep gratitude to the NPP government for supporting the establishment of the palm oil extraction facility.

He noted that the factory would not only help farmers increase production but also create jobs, particularly for women in the district.

Some women in the community commended the Amansie South District Assembly for its efforts in setting up the facility.

They expressed confidence that the facility would greatly improve the welfare of women by offering new economic opportunities.

“This facility will help us improve our livelihoods and empower women in the district,” they said.

The inauguration of the Mem Palm Oil Extraction Facility marks a significant milestone for the Amansie South District.

Expected to enhance local palm oil production, create jobs, and empower women, the facility is set to contribute to the broader economic development of the region.

It aligns with the government’s vision of transforming rural economies and improving the livelihoods of citizens through industrialization and agriculture.