Obaapanin Gertrude Ama Fio Ampomah Mensah was officially enstooled as the Queen Mother of Akyem Ati in the Abuakwa North Municipality of the Eastern Region on September 7, 2024. The colorful and grand ceremony was attended by several notable dignitaries, including Daasebre Adusei Peasah IV, Chief of Akyem Tafo; Barimah Appiah Asare I, Chief of Akyem Bosodumase; Barimah Ofori Mintah I, Chief of Akyem Bediasi; Nana Oforiwaa Denkyira Nkubita, Okyeman Adonteng Kyidomhemaa, and other sub-chiefs.
The Abuasuapanin of Akyem Ati, Mr. Amoah Mensah, led a delegation to present Obaapanin Gertrude Ama Fio Ampomah Mensah to Barimah Ati Awuah Kwaako, the Chief of Ati, and the kingmakers, culminating in her swearing-in by Barimah Ati Awuah.
Speaking to the press, Obaapanin Gertrude Ama Fio Ampomah Mensah, an educationist by profession, emphasized that improving education within the Akyem Ati community will be her topmost priority. She expressed her commitment to working closely with the existing Education Fund established by Barimah Ati Awuah Kwaako to ensure that every child in the community has access to quality education.
“Education is the foundation of development, and as Queen Mother, I will tirelessly work to ensure that our children receive the best possible education,”she stated, highlighting her plans to advocate for improved learning facilities, teacher support, and scholarship opportunities for students. She also emphasized her intention to launch initiatives aimed at reducing dropout rates and improving academic performance across the community.
Beyond formal education, Obaapanin Gertrude Ama Fio Ampomah Mensah revealed her commitment to youth empowerment through skill training programs. She outlined her plans to create opportunities for young people to acquire employable skills, particularly those in the informal sector. “We cannot leave our youth behind. Providing them with the skills needed for employment will not only uplift individual lives but also drive economic growth in our community,” she added.
Addressing social issues affecting the youth, she cautioned against the dangers of illicit drug use, pledging to work with traditional authorities and relevant law enforcement agencies to address the problem. “Education will be our weapon against drugs. For those willing to embrace learning, we will provide all the support they need. For those who refuse, we will not hesitate to enforce the law to protect our future,” she warned.
Abuasuapanin Amoah Mensah also took the opportunity to call on the people of Akyem Ati to stand united behind the newly installed Queen Mother. He stressed the importance of unity and collaboration in achieving the community’s socio-economic development goals.
With Obaapanin Gertrude Ama Fio Ampomah Mensah at the helm, Akyem Ati looks forward to a future where education and skill development are prioritized, setting the foundation for long-term growth and prosperity.
