Akyem Abompe is known for the production of bauxite beads invented by ancestors of the indigenes several centuries ago. This indigenous knowledge trickled down from generations has been the mainstay of residents aside farming.
The bauxite beads are produced from special stones mined from the deep forest in the area. The stones believed to contain some amount of bauxite dust are then cut into required sizes, drilled, and smoothed all through fascinating traditional processes.
According to the beads makers, the low patronage and bad market price for the products have been a disincentive to many youths hitherto willing to engage in the business.
To whip up high enthusiasm and demand for the products, the Ghana Export Promotion
Authority (GEPA) built beads production centre with the capacity of accommodating 100 beads makers attached with a yet to be installed equipment by GRATIS foundation to aid the locals expand their businesses for both local and international market.
The Secretary of Abompe Beads Producers Association, Owusu Buaben, believes this intervention by GEPA would help boost production, create employment and stimulate the local economy.
As part of the yearlong 50th Anniversary, celebration of GEPA on Friday, July 26, 2019 donated a large number of medicines and medical equipment to Bomdwene Health centre, which serves Abompe and its surrounding communities.
The GH¢45,000 worth of medical supplies donated by Mr Albert Kassim Diwura (Deputy CEO) and assisted by Ms Akua Agyeiwaa Botwe (Director, HR and Administration) on behalf of GEPA Management and staff included 200 bottles of mentholated spirit, 300 packs of multivitamin tablets, 500 Bottles of multivitamin syrup, 50 packs of paracetamol tablets, 200 packs of Diclofenac Gel, 100 packs of Diclofenac Injection, 10 packs of Glucometer, 20 packs of Test Stripes, 100 packs of Flagyl, 150 packs of Amoxicillin Capsules, 1000 Bottles of Paracetamol Syrup, 250 Rolls of Cotton Wool, 500 packs of Hand Gloves and 1 Weighing Machine.
According to Mr Albert Kassim Diwura, Deputy CEO, GEPA, the donation was strategically done to improve the health of the people to prepare for the momentum of their businesses as GEPA collaborates them.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Kojo Ansah
