The story of Emmanuel Owusu, Chief Executive Officer of Horse Electricals, a fast-growing electrical services company based in Obuasi, exemplifies how targeted socio-economic interventions can unlock local enterprise growth and create sustainable livelihoods.
Born and raised in Binsere, a host community within the Obuasi Municipality, Emmanuel began his entrepreneurial journey after completing his apprenticeship as an electrical technician. While technically skilled, he faced challenges common to many young artisans—limited access to certification, business structure, and growth support in an increasingly competitive environment.
Determined to create opportunities for himself, Emmanuel took a bold step by designing a simple flyer to advertise his services and sharing it on Facebook. Unbeknownst to him, the post caught the attention of officials from the Economic Development Unit of AngloGold Ashanti, Obuasi Mine, during routine media monitoring.
That moment marked a turning point. Emmanuel was invited to the Mine for engagement discussions—an intervention that would ultimately provide the foundation needed to formalise his business and place it on a path of sustainable growth.
Skills Development and Certification Programme in Action
Emmanuel became a beneficiary of the Skills Development and Certification Programme (SDCP), implemented under the Obuasi Mine’s Apprenticeship to Entrepreneurship initiative, a key component of the Mine’s 10-year Socio-economic Development Plan (SEDP).
The programme was developed following a comprehensive assessment of artisans in Obuasi, which revealed that many skilled workers, particularly those involved in domestic and commercial electrical installations—lacked the requisite certifications to validate their competencies and compete effectively within the industry.
Through the SDCP, Emmanuel’s enterprise was formalised and officially registered with support from the Mine under the name Horse Electricals. He joined more than 180 artisans who underwent intensive technical and vocational skills certification programmes. Participants were examined and certified by the National Vocational Training Institute (NVTI) and the Energy Commission, with all associated costs fully sponsored by AngloGold Ashanti, Obuasi Mine.
Reflecting on the programme’s impact, Emmanuel highlighted benefits that extended well beyond certification.
“We were taught the fundamentals of growing a business, the importance of embedding a strong safety culture, and the use of quality materials to ensure sustainability,” he said.
“These lessons have helped us attract a wider range of clients, even beyond Obuasi. This has truly been the trump card for our growth.”
Today, Horse Electricals stands as a testament to the impact of targeted skills development, certification, and mentorship. Emmanuel Owusu’s journey from apprentice to entrepreneur underscores the power of perseverance and demonstrates the transformative outcomes of AngloGold Ashanti’s commitment to local enterprise development, inclusive growth, and shared value creation.