The 31st December Palm Oil Production factory at Akyem New Tafo in the Eastern Region has been reduced to ashes, leaving behind a trail of destruction and economic hardship for the community.
Late into the night, flames ravaged the decades-old factory, consuming approximately 3000 gallons of palm oil, valued at over 1.2 million cedis.
The inferno, which raged for nearly five hours, also engulfed vital machinery, leaving nothing but ruins in its wake.
The impact of this tragedy extends far beyond the physical damage.
A hundred artisanal female palm producers and laborers, whose livelihoods depended on the factory, now face an uncertain future.
The production of palm oil in Akyem Tafo not only serves the domestic market but also reaches neighboring West African countries and even extends to customers in Europe.
Speaking on the scene, the Municipal Chief Executive for Abuakwa South, Alhaji Umar Bodinga, expressed the grim reality facing the community.
He emphasized that the cost of rebuilding the factory surpasses the financial capacity of the assembly. Alhaji Bodinga issued a heartfelt appeal to other agencies, urging immediate support to revive the factory and restore hope to the affected families.
The destruction of the palm oil production factory not only disrupts the local economy but also threatens to create a shortage of this essential commodity.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event, help is being requested urgently to rebuild and recover with the hope of restoring stability and economic empowerment for the affected women and labourers.
Source: Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
