Accra: Olam Food Ingredients Ghana Limited (ofi), a Licensed Buying Company in Ghana’s cocoa sector and an exporter of cashews, has supported five communities within Nkawkaw with educational infrastructure. ofi Ghana has constructed three kindergarten blocks, one primary school, and refurbished another basic school to benefit over 1,000 children in cocoa-growing communities-Awosoase, Tiawia, Krobom, Ekawso, and Akawani.
According to Ghana News Agency, a statement issued in Accra by the Company emphasized that the support was aimed at empowering communities, improving skills, and helping children access and remain in school. The initiative aligns with the company’s Cocoa Compass sustainability ambition, which seeks to enhance community thriving by improving access to education and mitigating child labor.
The statement further highlighted that beyond infrastructure, ofi Ghana had distributed 12,470 books along with pens, pencils, and crayons to children in these communities. The company views education as a crucial springboard for farmers and their families to develop knowledge and skills essential for achieving greater financial security and resilience.
Mr. Eric Botwe, the Country Head of ofi Ghana, stated that ofi and its partners are dedicated to contributing to the growth and development of the communities they operate in. He emphasized that education is a vital tool in helping to remove barriers for children to prosper.
Mr. Kennedy Ntoso, the Head of Sustainability, mentioned that the company was collaborating with contractors to provide furniture for the schools. He reiterated ofi Ghana’s commitment to improving the livelihood of farmers within their communities and exploring innovative ways to bolster development and community support.
The Headteachers of the schools expressed gratitude to ofi Ghana and its partners for their generosity. They noted that the provided stationery would enhance the teaching and learning process, allowing more students to engage actively in academic activities. They also pledged to maintain the new facilities to ensure their longevity for future pupils.