Weeds take over multi-million 1D1F starch factory in Assin South

Weeds have overtaken the One District One Factory (1D1F) starch processing facility at Kyekyewere in the Assin South District of the Central Region. The factory was launched under former President Nana Akufo-Addo's flagship 1D1F initiative. Construction began around 2019 but grounded to a halt amid reported funding shortfalls, procurement delays, and logistical hurdles.

The project was jointly financed with millions by the African Development Bank (AfDB), IFAD and the Government of Ghana. The facility sits on an acre of land near the Assin Fosu-Kumasi highway. The Ghana News Agency (GNA) visited on Thursday and found the facility resembling a derelict jungle with rusted equipment, cracked concrete slabs, and overgrown vegetation. A young man who pleaded anonymity said, "We were told this factory would create about 500 direct and indirect jobs, but now, we only see weeds and snakes." Mr. Samuel Jackson, a middle-aged farmer, said he had expanded his farm expecting steady buyers and good prices, but lost value on his produce due to a lack of buyers. Mrs. Felicia Amissah Ntrakwah, former District Chief Executive, confirmed to GNA that the facility was state funded through its partners and had been completed, awaiting official commencement of work before her exit in 2024.

The GNA followed up to the Assin South District Assembly, where some officials who pleaded anonymity said they were ignorant of the facility despite its proximity to the main road.