Stories and facts
The primary economic activities in this region are farming and petty trading.
Assin Foso Municipal, previously known as Assin Central Municipal, is one of Ghana's 261 Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs). It is part of the Central Region and has its administrative capital in Assin Foso. Geographically, it is located between Longitudes 1° 05' East and 1° 25' West and Latitudes 6° 05' North and 6° 40' South, covering an area of approximately 295 sq. km. The municipality shares boundaries with Twifo Atti Morkwa District to the west, Assin South District to the south, Asikuma Odoben Brakwa District and Ajumako Enyan Esiam District to the east, Upper Denkyira East Municipal to the northwest, and Adansi South District to the north.
As of the 2021 population and housing census, the municipality's population stands at 88,753, with 43,549 males and 45,204 females. Assin Central Municipal District is one of the districts within the Central Region, and it was originally part of the larger Assin District in 1988. It underwent several administrative changes, leading to its current name, Assin Central Municipal District.
The economy of the Municipality is primarily driven by agriculture (farming), commerce (wholesale/retail trade), manufacturing (agro-processing), and services. Agriculture employs around 63.2% of the working population and involves the cultivation of crops such as maize, cassava, plantain, palm fruits, and cocoa. Animal rearing and poultry are comparatively less significant in terms of production.
Assin Foso serves as a major marketing center, with a weekly market held on Tuesdays and Fridays, attracting various commodities for sale. The road network consists of 239.5 kilometers of feeder roads connecting rural communities to the municipal capital. Additionally, the Kumasi-Anhwian Nkwanta-Yamoransa-Cape Coast-Takoradi trunk road passes through Assin Foso, but many feeder roads in the hinterlands require improvement.
In terms of education, the Municipality is home to 263 schools ranging from basic to tertiary levels. About 48% of these schools belong to the public sector, while the remaining 52% are in the private sector. There is a need to focus on improving the Girl-Child Education Policy, as the enrolment of females in pre-schools to senior high schools is slightly lower than that of males.
Health services are provided by St. Francis Xavier Catholic Hospital in Assin Foso, serving as a referral facility. Malaria, Upper Respiratory Tract Infections, and diarrhea are among the most common cases seen at health facilities in the Municipality. Challenges faced by the health sector include a shortage of clinical personnel, such as Midwives and Dispensing Technicians, as well as a lack of support staff like Orderlies, Accounts Officers, and Security Officers.
Regarding water and sanitation, approximately 77.4% of perennial water problems have been resolved, with plans in place for further improvement. Waste disposal mainly relies on communal containers (85.3%), while some households (11.1%) dispose of waste indiscriminately. Settlement planning in the municipality shows poor organization, leading to haphazard building arrangements in various locations.
In terms of energy, most of the larger communities in the district, including Assin Foso, Assin Akropong, Assin Awisem, Assin Juaso, Assin Nyakumase, and Assin Brofoyedur, are connected to the national grid. There are plans to continue expanding electricity access in the region.
Assin Fosu Municipal serves as a remarkable representation of Ghana's rich past and promising future. Its historical importance, diverse culture, and commitment to community progress make it a compelling destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience in West Africa.
Like any evolving municipality, Assin Fosu is continuously advancing and expanding. Staying updated on the latest developments is crucial to ensuring a pleasant and safe visit. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or an adventurous traveler, Assin Fosu Municipal warmly invites you and guarantees an unforgettable journey in the heart of Ghana.
