The Ashanti Regional Minister-designate, Dr Frank Amoakohene, has pledged to tackle illegal mining, rejuvenate the cocoa sector, and address key infrastructural and sanitation challenges in the region.
During his vetting before the Parliamentary Appointments Committee on Tuesday, Dr Amoakohene emphasised that curbing illegal mining would require collective action, particularly from communities directly affected by the menace.
Dr Amoakohene expressed concern over the increasing number of cocoa farmers abandoning their plantations for illegal mining due to its higher financial returns. He attributed this shift to the rising costs of maintaining cocoa farms, including expenses for fertilisers and pesticides.
To reverse this trend, he advocated for a return to policies that previously supported cocoa farmers, such as free fertiliser distribution.
“We need to make cocoa farming more lucrative. In the past, we provided free fertilisers to our farmers. Reintroducing that policy will help them cut costs and improve their profit margins,” he noted.

He also stressed the need to raise cocoa prices to make farming more attractive, ensuring that farmers remain in the industry rather than turning to mining.
On infrastructure, Dr Amoakohene vowed to prioritise the completion of major market projects, including the Kejetia Central Market and Krofrom Market, to ease congestion and enhance security in those areas.
Addressing sanitation concerns, he identified waste management as a pressing issue but expressed confidence in resolving it through innovative solutions.
He suggested reviving buyback centres to encourage waste separation and recycling while advocating for round-the-clock waste management services in high-waste-producing areas.
The nominee underscored the importance of involving young people in regional governance and development. He proposed using social media as a tool for promoting good governance and engaging the youth in meaningful initiatives.
He also pledged to ensure that the Ashanti Region benefits from the government’s National Apprenticeship Programme, which aims to equip one million young people with digital and technical skills.
Dr Amoakohene stressed the need for collaboration beyond political affiliations, promising to work with all stakeholders to ensure balanced development across the region.